This heavenly white pizza is topped with roasted garlic mushrooms, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella on a golden, crispy crust. Finished with fragrant thyme and a touch of black pepper, it delivers deep savory flavor and rich texture in every bite. A gourmet vegetarian option that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive weekend entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Mushroom and Ricotta White Pizza brings a luxurious twist to classic pizza night. The absence of tomato sauce allows the delicate balance of earthy mushrooms, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs to shine. The ricotta adds smoothness, while the mozzarella and Parmesan melt into golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or mixed varieties)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Cornmeal or flour, for dusting

directions

1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until mushrooms are tender and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. On a lightly floured or cornmeal-dusted surface, roll out the pizza dough to your preferred thickness.
4. Transfer dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.
5. Brush the dough with olive oil, then evenly spread ricotta cheese over the surface.
6. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
7. Distribute the sautéed garlic mushrooms evenly across the pizza.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, top with fresh thyme leaves and a crack of black pepper. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 12-inch pizza, serving 2 to 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Add Greens: Top with arugula or baby spinach after baking for a fresh finish.
• Add Truffle Oil: Drizzle with a small amount of truffle oil just before serving for a more decadent experience.
• Go Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños for heat.
• Use Goat Cheese: Substitute ricotta with soft goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Mixed Mushrooms: Use a variety like shiitake, oyster, and portobello for depth and texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until the crust is crisp and cheese is hot. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the crust.
This pizza can also be frozen (before or after baking) and reheated directly from frozen in a hot oven.

FAQs

Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?

Yes, but fresh whole mushrooms are preferable for texture and flavor. Pre-sliced mushrooms can be used for convenience.

Is this pizza good without ricotta?

Yes, you can omit ricotta or replace it with goat cheese or a white sauce if preferred.

Can I make this pizza vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella alternatives, and sauté mushrooms in vegan butter or oil.

Do I need a pizza stone?

No, a baking sheet works well. However, a pizza stone provides a crisper crust by mimicking a brick oven.

What kind of dough should I use?

Homemade or store-bought pizza dough both work. Choose a dough that bakes well at high heat.

How thin should I roll the dough?

This depends on preference. For a crispier pizza, roll thinner. For a chewier crust, roll slightly thicker.

Can I add caramelized onions?

Yes, caramelized onions pair beautifully with mushrooms and ricotta for a sweet-savory contrast.

Is this suitable as an appetizer?

Absolutely. Cut into small squares or strips for an elegant starter or party snack.

Can I cook this in a pizza oven?

Yes, this pizza can be cooked in a high-temperature pizza oven. Adjust the cooking time as needed (usually 5–6 minutes).

Can I make the toppings in advance?

Yes, you can sauté the mushrooms ahead and refrigerate them until ready to assemble the pizza.

Conclusion

Garlic Mushroom and Ricotta White Pizza is a deliciously sophisticated alternative to red-sauce pizzas. With its creamy base, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that pleases vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, this white pizza is a standout addition to any homemade pizza night.

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