Name: White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound refrigerated pizza crust dough ((Trader Joe's garlic & herb dough is a great option or your favorite pizza dough)); 24 medium cloves garlic ((about 2 heads, separated, peel left on)); 2 tablespoons olive oil ((plus more for working the crust, if desired)); 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese ((whole milk ricotta works too)); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt ((more for sprinkling the garlic)); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach ((thawed and squeezed to remove any excess moisture)); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese ((divided; about 8 ounces))

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When you think of pizza, the classic tomato sauce and cheese combo likely comes to mind. But let’s take a detour into the delightful world of white pizza. This White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that showcases the robust flavors of roasted garlic and fresh spinach. It’s rich, satisfying, and oh so comforting—a perfect dish for any pizza lover!

Not only does this pizza deliver on taste, but it also brings a touch of elegance to your meal. The creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and the fragrant roasted garlic make every bite a little slice of heaven. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this white pizza will surely impress!

The Upside of White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic

Why should you try this White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic? For starters, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Spinach is packed with nutrients, and when paired with the creamy ricotta and the savory roasted garlic, you have a winning combination. The white sauce eliminates the acidity often found in tomato-based sauces, allowing the flavors of the cheese and garlic to shine through. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, especially with refrigerated pizza dough.

The Ingredient Lineup

For this delicious White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound refrigerated pizza crust dough (Trader Joe’s garlic & herb dough is a great option or your favorite pizza dough)
24 medium cloves garlic (about 2 heads, separated, peel left on)
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for working the crust, if desired)
1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta works too)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more for sprinkling the garlic)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed to remove any excess moisture)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided; about 8 ounces)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential tools:

Large baking sheet or pizza stone – for baking your pizza to crispy perfection.
Mixing bowls – for combining the ricotta and spinach.
Aluminum foil – for wrapping the garlic while roasting.
Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot items!

Mastering White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic: How-To

Ready to create your own White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the heads of garlic and trim off the tops to expose the cloves slightly. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Wrap them in aluminum foil and roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

While the garlic is roasting, take your refrigerated pizza dough out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This makes it easier to stretch. If you’re using Trader Joe’s garlic & herb dough, the flavors will complement the pizza beautifully!

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped basil, honey, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until well combined. This creamy blend will serve as the base for your pizza.

Step 4: Squeeze the Spinach

Once the spinach is thawed, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy pizza. Add the squeezed spinach to the ricotta mixture and stir until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to your baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the ricotta and spinach mixture evenly over the dough.

Step 6: Add the Roasted Garlic and Cheese

Once your garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves out of their skins and scatter them over the ricotta mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. You can rotate the pizza halfway through for even baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic!

What to Use Instead

If you’re missing any of the ingredients or need to make substitutions, here are some ideas:

Garlic powder – use in place of roasted garlic for a different flavor.
Ricotta alternatives – cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used instead of ricotta.
Fresh spinach – if you have fresh spinach on hand, feel free to use it instead of frozen.
Herbs – switch up the herbs based on your preference; thyme or parsley can work well too.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Even the best of us can encounter a few bumps in the road while making pizza. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Soggy crust – Ensure you thoroughly squeeze out moisture from the spinach and avoid overloading the pizza with sauce.
Burnt garlic – Keep an eye on your garlic while roasting; if it’s browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature.
Sticking dough – Use flour or cornmeal on your baking surface to prevent sticking.
Cheese not melting – Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve that gooey, stretchy cheese.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store them properly:

Cool the pizza completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, which keeps the crust crispy.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, fontina, or provolone for a unique flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this pizza vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a vegan pizza dough. Just make sure your toppings align with your dietary preferences.

Can I freeze the pizza?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.

What can I serve with this pizza?

A fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic, balancing the richness of the dish.

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more delicious recipes like this White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic, be sure to come back for more culinary inspiration. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s always something new to try in the kitchen!

This White Pizza with Spinach & Roasted Garlic is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its creamy ricotta base, the sweetness of roasted garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh basil, every bite will take you to pizza paradise. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a pizza that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy your cooking adventure!