Name: The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded; 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 42 reviews

If you have ever craved a pizza that feels both indulgent and fresh, then you are about to fall in love with The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe. This pizza boasts a perfect balance of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a fragrant garlic-infused white sauce that perfectly coats a golden, crispy crust. There is something so comforting and genuinely exciting about making this pizza from scratch or using your favorite store-bought dough. Whether for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this white pizza recipe delivers pure delight in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a flat round pizza on a wooden board with a thin golden brown crust as the bottom layer. The next layer shows melted yellow cheese spread evenly across the surface with some orange grilled spots. On top are several dollops of soft white ricotta cheese spaced out across the pizza. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered between the ricotta dollops, adding bright color. The cheese has some black pepper sprinkled for texture. The wooden board sits on a white marbled surface, with a few garlic cloves nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this pizza’s irresistible flavor. Each component has a simple but essential role, from the garlicky white sauce to the combination of cheeses that create the perfect texture and color contrast.

2 Tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, silky base for the white sauce that enhances flavor depth.
2 Tablespoons olive oil: Brings fruity lightness and helps meld the sauce ingredients smoothly.
3 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Infuses the sauce with vibrant, aromatic garlic punch.
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: A hint of herbal brightness balancing the creaminess perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle savoriness and rounds out the sauce taste.
1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): Your crispy, chewy canvas for all these flavorful toppings.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty classic cheese that makes each bite heavenly.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded: Adds savory sharpness and a golden finish when baked.
1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Brings creamy pockets of lusciousness throughout the pizza.

How to Make The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Sauce

Begin by heating your oven to the temperature recommended on your pizza dough package, or around 425°F if you want a beautifully crisp crust and perfectly melted cheese. While the oven heats up, melt the butter in a small bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, and onion powder, then stir well to combine. This flavorful white sauce is what sets this recipe apart, coating the crust with a garlicky richness that’s everything you want from a white pizza sauce.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Whether you prefer a thinner crust or something heartier, this step lets you customize your base. Once rolled out, transfer your dough carefully onto a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone to ensure a crispy bottom once baked.

Step 3: Add the White Sauce

Spread the garlic white pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges for that perfect golden crust. This sauce should glisten and have a luscious texture—get it just right to maximize every bite’s creaminess and flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Cheeses

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella liberally, covering the sauce with a gooey blanket of melty cheese. Then, drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly across the pizza, creating creamy little pockets that bake to perfection and add delightful contrast in texture and taste. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese to bring a savory sharpness that browns beautifully as the pizza bakes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your pizza in the hot oven and bake according to your dough’s instructions or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheeses are bubbly and slightly browned. This step transforms your ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that rivals any pizzeria’s offering.

Step 6: Cool and Garnish

Take your pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set the toppings and make slicing easier. For an extra burst of freshness and a more vibrant presentation, consider garnishing with a handful of fresh basil leaves. This touch elevates aroma and adds a pop of green color against the creamy white cheeses.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Cut your white pizza into wedges or squares, whichever you prefer, and serve it hot. The combination of crispy crust, smooth white sauce, and layered cheeses makes every bite spectacular, so gather friends or family and enjoy this homemade treat together!

How to Serve The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe

The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are a classic addition, bringing lovely herbal notes and bright contrast to the creamy cheeses. You might also sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat or drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance that silky smooth finish just before serving.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette to balance its richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or a simple garlic bread also make wonderful companions without overpowering the subtle flavors of the pizza.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pizza alongside a dipping bowl of basil pesto or a garlic-infused olive oil for added flavor layers. Another idea is to slice the pizza into smaller appetizer-sized squares for party platters, making it easy to share and enjoy in a casual setting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust from becoming soggy and keeps the cheeses fresh. Reheat carefully to maintain the texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this pizza, either whole or sliced, by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat to revive the crispy crust or in an oven set to 375°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that original texture as much as possible.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough works perfectly and is a great time-saver. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking temperature and times.

Is ricotta cheese necessary for this pizza?

Ricotta adds a luscious creaminess that really elevates the texture and flavor of this white pizza. While you can omit it, the ricotta helps create those wonderful creamy pockets that make the pizza special.

Can I add other toppings to this white pizza?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even crispy bacon can complement the flavors beautifully. Just be mindful not to overload the pizza so the crust remains crispy.

How do I know when the pizza is done baking?

The pizza is ready when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly browned in spots. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes at 425°F, depending on your oven and dough.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute with a similar salty, sharp flavor. Alternatively, you can use Grana Padano for a milder taste.

Final Thoughts

Making The Best Homemade White Pizza with Mozzarella, Garlic, and Ricotta Recipe is such a rewarding and delicious experience that you will want to keep it in your regular rotation. It’s cozy, elegant, and surprisingly easy to prepare, turning simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Give it a try, and enjoy every melty, garlicky bite!