Creamy & Dreamy: My Perfect Ricotta Pizza Recipe
There’s something magical about ricotta. Soft, cloud-like, and ever so slightly sweet — it’s the cheese that transforms a simple pizza into something extraordinary. Today, I’m sharing my ricotta pizza recipe, one that I’ve tested, tweaked, and fallen in love with over countless Sunday dinners in my kitchen.
If you’ve only ever had the usual mozzarella-and-tomato pies, trust me — you’re in for a treat. This pizza is lighter, creamier, and bursting with flavor. The ricotta acts like a pillow for roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. And when it melts into the crust? Pure heaven.
So, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a first-time pizza maker, let’s roll up our sleeves, dust the counter with flour, and dive into making the most irresistible ricotta pizza you’ve ever had.
Ingredients for Ricotta Pizza Recipe
Here’s everything you need for a 12-inch pizza that serves 2–3 people.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought) | 1 ball (about 250g) |
| Fresh ricotta cheese | 1 cup (drained if watery) |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, freshly grated | ¼ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves, roasted or minced | 2–3 |
| Fresh basil leaves | Handful |
| Fresh oregano or thyme | 1 tsp (or a few sprigs) |
| Red chili flakes (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper, freshly cracked | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
If you’re using homemade dough, let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling. This relaxes the gluten and makes stretching easier. Sprinkle your counter with flour and roll it out into a 12-inch round.
Tip: Don’t worry about making a perfect circle — rustic shapes are beautiful on homemade pizza!
2. Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone inside if you have one. If not, a baking sheet works just fine. The high heat ensures a crisp, golden crust.
3. Season the Ricotta
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta with roasted garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step infuses the cheese with flavor and makes every bite shine.
4. Assemble the Pizza
- Place your dough on parchment paper (easier for transferring).
- Spread the seasoned ricotta evenly across the base.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
- Add a dusting of Parmesan for extra depth.
- Scatter fresh herbs and, if you like, a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
5. Bake to Perfection
Slide your pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling with little brown spots.
6. Garnish & Serve
Once out of the oven, drizzle a little more olive oil and top with fresh basil leaves. Slice it while it’s still warm, and watch the creamy ricotta ooze gently over the crust.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Ricotta Pizza
- Drain the ricotta: If your ricotta is too wet, it can make the pizza soggy. Simply place it in a fine sieve or cheesecloth for 15 minutes.
- Boost the flavor: Mix ricotta with lemon zest and a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle, gourmet twist.
- Add toppings wisely: Ricotta is mild and creamy, so balance it with bold flavors — caramelized onions, prosciutto, roasted veggies, or even honey and figs for a sweet-savory version.
- Use high heat: Don’t be shy with oven temperature. Pizza loves heat, and so does ricotta.
Why This Ricotta Pizza Recipe Works
Ricotta doesn’t melt like mozzarella. Instead, it holds its soft, pillowy shape while warming through. That’s what makes this pizza unique — every bite gives you a mix of molten mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and creamy ricotta pockets. The contrast in textures is addictive.
FAQs About Ricotta Pizza
Q: Can I use store-bought ricotta for this pizza?
Absolutely. Just make sure to drain it if it’s watery. If you can get fresh ricotta from an Italian deli, even better.
Q: Do I need sauce for ricotta pizza?
Not at all! In fact, I prefer it without. The cheese, herbs, and olive oil create a lighter, more elegant pizza. But if you miss tomato sauce, spread a very thin layer under the ricotta.
Q: What goes well with ricotta pizza?
Pair it with a crisp green salad, a glass of Pinot Grigio, or roasted vegetables. For toppings, try spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot honey.
Q: Can I make this pizza on a grill?
Yes! Grilled ricotta pizza is smoky and delicious. Preheat your grill, oil the grates, and cook the dough for 2–3 minutes per side. Then add toppings and finish with the lid closed until the cheese melts.
Final Thoughts
Making a ricotta pizza recipe isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating something comforting yet elegant, simple yet indulgent. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and crisp crust is irresistible.
Whenever I serve this pizza at home, it disappears faster than I can slice it. That’s the beauty of food like this — it brings people together, around the table, sharing laughter and good conversation over something warm and homemade.
So, the next time you’re craving pizza but want to step away from the usual tomato-and-mozzarella routine, try this recipe. I promise, once you taste the airy creaminess of ricotta on pizza, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Buon appetito, my friends — and happy baking! 🍕✨
See Also: Recipes Using Pizza Crust | Creative Homemade Pizza Dough Ideas
