There’s a reason why ricotta garlic white pizza has become a beloved staple at many of LA’s trendiest wine bars. This pizza skips the traditional red sauce entirely and instead layers on luxurious, creamy ricotta cheese and rich roasted garlic for a flavor profile that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. It’s the kind of pie you’d find served alongside a chilled glass of Chardonnay, topped with fresh herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil.
White pizza—also known as “pizza bianca” in Italy—has long been celebrated for its minimal, cheese-forward composition. But this ricotta garlic white pizza takes things to the next level with roasted garlic cloves melted into the cheese, offering a mellow yet flavorful backbone that balances beautifully with the creamy ricotta. The mozzarella adds that essential gooey stretch, while Parmesan delivers a punch of sharpness.
What’s especially inviting about this recipe is how easy it is to recreate at home, even without a fancy pizza oven. All you need is a few pantry staples, good cheese, and a hot oven to achieve a bubbly, golden pie that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s great for entertaining friends during a Sunday brunch or a low-key date night when you want something indulgent yet unfussy.
Whether you’re a seasoned pizzaiolo or a home cook looking to try something new, this ricotta garlic white pizza is guaranteed to impress. Its creamy, garlicky richness pairs beautifully with peppery arugula, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of honey or truffle oil for an upscale touch. Serve it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine, and you’ve got the perfect LA-style evening at home.
Equipment
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 ball pizza dough store-bought or homemade, about 250g
- Sauce Base:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp minced fresh thyme optional
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
Toppings:
- 3/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cloves garlic roasted and smashed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Optional: lemon zest or arugula for finishing
Instructions
Preparation:
Roast the Garlic:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap unpeeled garlic cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil. Roast for 20–25 minutes until soft. Let cool, then smash into a paste.
Preheat Oven and Surface:
- Place a pizza stone in the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) or as hot as your oven allows. Let it heat for at least 30 minutes.
Stretch Dough:
- On a floured surface, stretch or roll the dough into a 10–12 inch circle.
Assembly:
Build the Base:
- Brush the dough with olive oil. Sprinkle with thyme and red pepper flakes if using.
Add Ricotta & Garlic:
- Drop spoonfuls of ricotta across the dough, then smear with the roasted garlic paste.
Layer the Cheese:
- Add shredded mozzarella evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
Bake:
- Transfer to hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Finish & Serve:
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with parsley and black pepper. Optional: top with arugula or lemon zest before slicing.
Notes
- For extra garlic flavor, mix raw minced garlic into the olive oil base.
- Want a crispy crust? Par-bake the dough for 3 minutes before adding toppings.
- Ricotta too wet? Drain it in cheesecloth for 15 minutes to avoid sogginess.
- Try truffle oil or a drizzle of honey for a gourmet upgrade.
