White Pizza Perfection: Arugula, Tomato, Bacon & Blue Cheese Recipe

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White Pizza PerfectionWhite pizza, or pizza bianca, offers a delightful alternative to the traditional tomato-sauce-based pie. This recipe elevates the classic white pizza with a vibrant combination of peppery arugula, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and tangy blue cheese, all resting upon a creamy, garlicky white sauce. Get ready to experience a pizza that’s both sophisticated and comforting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

What is White Pizza?

White pizza deviates from the norm by swapping the standard tomato sauce for a base of creamy white sauce, often made with béchamel, ricotta, or a blend of cheeses and herbs. The absence of tomato sauce allows other flavors to shine, creating a lighter, more nuanced pizza experience. White pizza offers a blank canvas for culinary creativity, making it incredibly versatile and a great option for those looking for something different.

Why This White Pizza Recipe Works

This particular recipe works so well because it balances contrasting flavors and textures:* Creamy & Rich: The white sauce provides a luscious foundation.* Fresh & Peppery: Arugula adds a refreshing bite and visual appeal.* Sweet & Acidic: Tomatoes contribute sweetness and acidity, cutting through the richness.* Salty & Smoky: Bacon delivers salty and smoky notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.* Sharp & Tangy: Blue cheese adds a sharp, tangy complexity.The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients for White Pizza with Arugula, Tomato, Bacon & Blue Cheese

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need:

For the White Pizza Sauce:

Ingredients Laid Out

  • Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Butter forms the base of the roux and adds richness to the sauce.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic infuses the sauce with its pungent and aromatic flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons. Flour is used to create a roux, which thickens the sauce.
  • Whole Milk: 2 cups. Milk provides the liquid base for the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Whole milk offers the richest flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup. Heavy cream enhances the richness and creaminess of the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and nutty flavor to the sauce.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated. Mozzarella cheese contributes to the creaminess and meltability of the sauce.
  • Salt & Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial for balancing the flavors of the sauce.
  • Pinch of Nutmeg: Optional, but adds a subtle warmth and depth.
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For the Pizza Toppings:

  • Pizza Dough: 1 pound, store-bought or homemade. Good pizza starts with the dough.
  • Cooked Bacon: 6 slices, cooked until crispy and crumbled. Bacon provides a salty, smoky element.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and acidity.
  • Arugula: 2 cups, fresh. Arugula provides a peppery bite and fresh flavor.
  • Blue Cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled. Blue cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
  • Olive Oil: For drizzling. Olive oil adds richness and helps the pizza crust crisp up.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your White Pizza Masterpiece

Follow these detailed instructions to create your delicious white pizza:

1. Prepare the White Pizza Sauce:

Creamy White Sauce Preparation

  • Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  • Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will ensure the sauce is smooth and thickens properly.
  • Add the Milk & Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken.
  • Incorporate the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Season to Perfection: Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Keep Warm: Keep the sauce warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, while you prepare the pizza dough and toppings.

2. Prepare the Pizza Dough & Toppings:

Pizza Dough Ready to Roll

  • Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible, ideally 500-550°F (260-290°C). If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help create a crispy crust.
  • Stretch the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll the pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness.
  • Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal (or parchment paper for easy transfer).

Laying the White Sauce

  • Spread the Sauce: Spread a generous layer of the white sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
  • Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and halved cherry tomatoes over the sauce.

Crafting the Perfect Combination

  • Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking steel (or place the parchment paper with the pizza onto a baking sheet).
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Baking the Pizza to Perfection

  • Bake until Golden Brown: Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
  • Add the Final Touches: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and fresh arugula.

Final Assembly with Arugula

  • Drizzle & Serve: Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if desired). Slice and serve immediately.

Slicing the Perfect Pizza

Tips for the Best White Pizza Experience

* Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your pizza. Choose fresh, high-quality cheese, ripe tomatoes, and good-quality bacon.* Don’t Overload the Pizza: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Be mindful of the amount of toppings you add.* Preheat Your Pizza Stone/Steel: A preheated pizza stone or baking steel is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.* Adjust Baking Time: Baking time may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the pizza and adjust the baking time as needed.* Let the Pizza Rest: After baking, let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from sliding off.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:* Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses in the white sauce or as toppings. Fontina, provolone, or goat cheese would be delicious additions.* Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.* Protein: Substitute the bacon with prosciutto, sausage, or grilled chicken.* Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the white sauce or as a garnish.* Crust: Try using a different type of crust, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.* Spicy White Pizza: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the white sauce for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

Served White Pizza on a PlatterThis white pizza is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:* A Simple Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing will complement the richness of the pizza.* Garlic Bread: For an extra dose of garlic flavor.* Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would be a great pairing.Pairing Suggestions* Beer: A light and refreshing beer, such as a Pilsner or Pale Ale, would also be a good choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?A: Yes, you can make the white sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, before using.Q: Can I freeze the white sauce?A: While you *can* freeze the white sauce, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The dairy can sometimes separate. If you do freeze it, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, whisking constantly, to restore its smooth consistency.Q: Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of making my own?A: While this recipe is for *white* pizza sauce, if you want to use a traditional red pizza sauce, feel free! However, the flavor profile will be vastly different.Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover pizza?A: The best way to reheat leftover pizza is in a skillet over medium heat. Place the pizza slices in the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.Q: Can I grill this pizza?A: Yes, you can grill this pizza. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the pizza dough directly on the grill and cook for a few minutes until the bottom is slightly charred. Flip the dough and quickly add the white sauce and toppings. Close the grill and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown. Be careful not to burn the crust.Q: What kind of blue cheese should I use?A: The best type of blue cheese to use depends on your personal preference. Gorgonzola is a milder, creamier blue cheese, while Stilton is a stronger, more pungent blue cheese. Roquefort is another good option, known for its sharp and salty flavor. Experiment with different types of blue cheese to find your favorite.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per slice (depending on toppings and portion size)* Fat: 20-30g per slice* Protein: 15-20g per slice* Carbohydrates: 30-40g per sliceNote: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

A White Pizza to Remember

This white pizza recipe with arugula, tomato, bacon, and blue cheese is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy white sauce, fresh toppings, and crispy crust create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a pizza that’s truly unforgettable!

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