Are you craving a pizza night but want something a little different from the usual pepperoni? This creamy ricotta pizza recipe is the perfect answer! It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget takeout – homemade pizza is easier than you think, and this recipe is proof. Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes one 12-inch pizza. Easily double or triple for a larger crowd!
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Pizza:
- 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
- Preheat & prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to a 12-inch circle. Transfer to the prepared pan.
- Add sauce and ricotta: Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the sauce.
- Add cheese & toppings: Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and any desired toppings.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool & serve: Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for Pizza Perfection:
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Don't overload the pizza with toppings; it can make the crust soggy.
- If using fresh herbs, add them during the last few minutes of baking to retain their flavor and color.
- Experiment with different cheeses! Fontina, provolone, or a blend would be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Ricotta Pizza: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a kick.
- Vegetarian Pizza: Load it up with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and eggplant.
- Meat Lovers Pizza: Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, or bacon for a heartier pizza.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Enjoy your delicious homemade ricotta pizza! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out! Happy cooking!