Ingredients
– 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. Otherwise, a regular baking sheet will do just fine.
2. On a floured surface, stretch your pizza dough out to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it onto a piece of parchment paper (for easy transfer onto your pizza stone or baking sheet).
3. Brush the stretched dough with olive oil and then sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over it.
4. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
6. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Slide the pizza (on the parchment paper) onto your preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle fresh basil over the top. Slice and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
– Flex your flavor muscles by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts atop your white pizza before baking.
– For a protein boost, feel free to sprinkle cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or sliced grilled chicken.
– No pizza stone? No problem! Just use a baking sheet turned upside down in your oven for a similar effect.
– Get ahead by making your dough in advance and refrigerating it. Just remember to let it return to room temp before stretching it out.

There you have it — a heavenly Baked “White” Pizza that will whisk you away to cheese paradise. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings; after all, cooking is about making it your own! Bon Appétit!