When I first baked a Pizza Bianca at home, I realized how something so simple could feel so indulgent. Unlike the classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, this version embraces a white base, usually made with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a creamy layer of cheese. I love preparing it on days when I crave pizza but want something lighter and more versatile. The crust bakes up golden and crisp, the cheese melts into a velvety layer, and the toppings add just the right touch without overwhelming the balance of flavors. Every time I make it, it feels like bringing a piece of rustic Italian tradition straight into my kitchen.

You will love this recipe because it is a refreshing alternative to the usual red-sauce pizza. The white base allows the toppings to shine, making it the perfect canvas for fresh vegetables, cured meats, or even just a drizzle of fragrant olive oil. It works beautifully for both casual weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends. The crisp, airy crust paired with the creamy cheese makes each bite comforting yet elegant.

Another reason this recipe is so special is its versatility. Pizza Bianca is incredibly customizable. You can prepare it with only a few pantry staples and still enjoy a satisfying meal. If you want a richer flavor, add ricotta or mozzarella. If you’re looking for freshness, layer in arugula or roasted vegetables after baking. It adapts to different tastes and occasions effortlessly, which makes it a recipe I never get tired of revisiting.

Affordability is another highlight. You don’t need expensive ingredients to achieve the best results. Flour, olive oil, cheese, and a touch of garlic form the foundation, and you can build on that with whatever you already have at home. It proves that homemade pizza doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. A batch of homemade dough can stretch into more than one pizza, making it even more budget-friendly while still tasting like something special.

Ingredients for Pizza Bianca

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 packet (7 g) instant yeast
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Prepare Pizza Bianca

Making Pizza Bianca at home is a straightforward process that rewards you with a crisp, flavorful, and creamy pizza. The steps are simple to follow, and the results are always impressive. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can prepare a homemade dough, top it with fragrant olive oil, garlic, herbs, and cheese, and bake it until golden. What I love about this recipe is how quickly it comes together while still offering endless possibilities for customization.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it rest for about five minutes until the yeast activates and becomes foamy. This step is essential for creating a light and airy crust. Next, add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Add the olive oil and knead for about eight to ten minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If you prefer using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead for around six minutes.

Step 2: Let the dough rise
Once the dough is smooth, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for one to one and a half hours. The dough should double in size. This resting period helps develop flavor and ensures the crust will be crisp yet soft inside once baked.

Step 3: Preheat the oven
When the dough is nearly ready, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside while the oven heats to achieve an even crisper crust. If not, a baking sheet will also work well.

Step 4: Shape the base
Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it into a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference and baking tray. Aim for a thin, even crust to ensure proper baking. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled baking sheet or preheated stone.

Step 5: Prepare the topping
In a small bowl, mix olive oil with the minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the rolled-out dough. This forms the signature base of Pizza Bianca, adding flavor and moisture while allowing the crust to brown beautifully.

Step 6: Add cheese and herbs
Spread the ricotta cheese evenly across the dough. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top, making sure to cover the surface without overloading it. Finish with a pinch of chopped rosemary or thyme, along with a light seasoning of salt and black pepper. These herbs add a fragrant aroma that enhances the simplicity of the pizza.

Step 7: Bake to perfection
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crust is golden brown. If you enjoy a crispier crust, leave it for an extra minute or two while keeping an eye on the edges.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a minute before slicing. This short pause allows the cheese to settle slightly, making slicing easier. Serve warm, either as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad.

Quick and Easy

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it can be prepared. The dough requires minimal ingredients, and once it rises, the baking process is fast. On busy days, you can even prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This makes Pizza Bianca a practical option for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

Customizable

Pizza Bianca is a blank canvas for creativity. You can keep it simple with garlic, olive oil, and cheese, or elevate it with toppings like caramelized onions, roasted peppers, or fresh greens. For a heartier version, add cooked chicken ham or turkey bacon. If you prefer vegetarian options, roasted mushrooms or zucchini bring depth and variety. After baking, you can also add a handful of arugula or a drizzle of pesto for freshness.

Popular with Many People

This recipe has wide appeal because it offers familiar flavors with a unique twist. Children enjoy its cheesy base, adults appreciate its refined taste, and guests find it a refreshing change from traditional pizza. Its neutral base makes it a great dish to pair with soups, salads, or grilled dishes, which is why it remains one of my go-to recipes for gatherings.

Creamy & Crispy Pizza Bianca – White Pizza at Its Best

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pizza Bianca, also known as “white pizza,” is a delicious Italian classic that skips the tomato sauce and focuses on a creamy, cheesy base infused with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends.

Author: Lura Skye
Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 3 1x

Instructions

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined, then add olive oil. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into your desired shape. Transfer to the preheated stone or baking sheet.
Mix olive oil with minced garlic and brush generously over the dough.
Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the base. Sprinkle mozzarella on top, followed by rosemary or thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted.
Remove from the oven, let it rest for 1 minute, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

You can use store-bought dough for convenience.

For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan before baking.

Add fresh arugula, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of pesto after baking for variety.

To keep the crust crisp, always brush with olive oil before adding cheese.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Pizza Bianca?
Yes, you can absolutely use ready-made pizza dough if you want to save time. It still delivers excellent results, and you only need to focus on preparing the toppings.

What cheeses work best for Pizza Bianca?
Mozzarella and ricotta are the classic choices because they create a creamy and melty texture. However, you can also add Parmesan for sharpness or provolone for extra richness.

Can I make Pizza Bianca without yeast?
If you prefer a quicker version, you can prepare a no-yeast dough using baking powder. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Brush the dough with olive oil before adding cheese. This helps create a barrier that keeps the crust crisp, even after baking.

Can Pizza Bianca be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. You can also bake the crust partially, add toppings later, and finish baking just before serving.

Is Pizza Bianca suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. By keeping the toppings simple with cheese, herbs, and vegetables, it becomes a satisfying vegetarian option.