Description
This Broccoli White Pizza is a delicious vegetarian pizza featuring a creamy garlic ricotta base topped with tender broccoli florets, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection with a golden crust and bubbly cheese, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or homemade pizza nights.
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 1 (12- to 14-inch) pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for pizza peel)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside while it heats to ensure a crisp crust.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Toss the chopped broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat and season them.
- Mix Ricotta and Garlic: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with minced garlic to create a flavorful creamy base.
- Shape the Dough: Stretch the pizza dough into a 12- to 14-inch round shape and place it onto parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread the garlic ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Add Cheese and Broccoli: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the ricotta, then distribute the broccoli florets on top.
- Top and Season: Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, over the broccoli-topped pizza.
- Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2–3 minutes to set, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza and serve it warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Blanch the broccoli for 1 minute in boiling water if you prefer it extra-tender before adding it to the pizza.
- Enhance the flavor by adding spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions as additional toppings.
- For a sweet and tangy finish, drizzle hot honey or balsamic glaze over the pizza after baking.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
