Ricotta Pizza Recipe

Ricotta Pizza is an indulgent and creamy twist on the classic pizza that combines the creamy, mild taste of ricotta cheese with traditional pizza ingredients for a delightful culinary experience. This recipe offers a delicious balance of flavors with a crisp crust, savory tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and the rich, slightly sweet taste of ricotta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Ricotta Pizza will impress your family and friends with its unique and comforting profile.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 handful fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cornmeal (for dusting the pizza peel or baking tray)

Instructions

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats to ensure a perfectly crisp crust.

Prepare the pizza dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. For a crispier crust, roll the dough thinly. Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza peel or a baking tray dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Spread the tomato sauce: Evenly spread the tomato sauce over the surface of the pizza dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.

Add the ricotta cheese: Dollop small spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the tomato sauce. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the ricotta, leaving some areas thicker for added texture.

Sprinkle the cheeses: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the sauce and ricotta.

Season the pizza: Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle with dried oregano, dried basil, and minced garlic. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking tray in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Finish with fresh basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top before slicing.

Serve: Slice the pizza and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Ricotta Pizza with a side salad or a glass of your favorite wine.

Servings

This Ricotta Pizza recipe yields approximately 2-4 servings, depending on portion sizes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tools Needed

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Oven mitts
• Pizza cutter
• Pastry brush (optional)

Detailed Tips for Preparing the Recipe

1. Pizza Dough: Ensure the pizza dough is at room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it more pliable and easier to shape.
2. Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible, ideally around 500°F (260°C). A hot oven ensures a crispy crust.
3. Pizza Stone: If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during the preheat phase. This helps in achieving a perfectly crispy base.
4. Even Spreading: When spreading the ricotta mixture, do so evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced flavor.
5. Toppings: Add any additional toppings such as vegetables or herbs after spreading the ricotta to keep the cheese from overheating and becoming runny.
6. Oiling the Crust: For a golden-brown finish, brush the edges of the crust with olive oil.
7. Monitoring: Keep an eye on the pizza while it bakes. It can go from perfectly cooked to overdone in a matter of minutes.
8. Resting: Allow the pizza to rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven to let the cheese set slightly, making for easier slicing.

Skill Level

Intermediate – This recipe requires some baking experience and familiarity with handling high oven temperatures and dough rolling.

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

For an elegant presentation, top your ricotta pizza with a handful of fresh arugula, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Cut the pizza into equal slices using a pizza cutter and serve immediately while hot. Pair it with a light, crisp salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the ricotta. Optionally, you can offer a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage Conditions

If you have leftovers, allow the pizza to cool completely before storing it. Wrap individual slices tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep the slices in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Health Benefits

Ricotta cheese is rich in essential nutrients, including protein and calcium, crucial for muscle repair and bone health. The combination of vegetables (if added) and whole-grain pizza dough can provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. The use of olive oil for brushing the crust can contribute healthy monounsaturated fats beneficial for heart health. Limiting the amount of cheese can make this recipe lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, supporting overall cardiovascular health.

Recommendations for Vegans

For a vegan version, substitute the ricotta with a vegan ricotta cheese made from almonds or cashews. Ensure that any crust used is also vegan-friendly by checking for dairy or animal-derived ingredients. Vegan toppings such as spinach, roasted red peppers, or artichokes can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile.

Similar Recipes

• Margherita Pizza
• Spinach and Feta Pizza
• White Pizza with Garlic and Herbs
• Four-Cheese Pizza
• Pesto Pizza with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
• Veggie Pizza with Goat Cheese

This comprehensive guide will help you master the making of a delicious Ricotta Pizza while considering nutritional aspects, preparation tips, and adaptations to suit various dietary preferences. Enjoy your culinary journey!