Chef Mitchell preparing Prosciutto Basil White Pizza
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this delightful pizza recipe during a trip to Italy, where the simplicity of ingredients amazed me. After experimenting with different toppings, I perfected this Prosciutto Basil White Pizza. It's a favorite in my household and always garners rave reviews at dinner parties."

With a passion for Italian cuisine, Chef Mitchell has been creating delectable dinner recipes for over a decade. His experience at renowned Italian restaurants has honed his skills in crafting authentic flavors and textures. Chef Mitchell believes in using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Prosciutto Basil White Pizza served on a plate

Why This Prosciutto Basil White Pizza Recipe Works

This Prosciutto Basil White Pizza stands out with its rich, creamy cheese base paired with the salty goodness of prosciutto. The combination of flavors is balanced by the freshness of basil, creating a gourmet experience at home. Each slice is a blend of savory and fresh, making it irresistible.

The technique of baking this pizza at a high temperature ensures a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. By using a pizza stone, you achieve restaurant-quality results, giving you that perfect bite every time. The minimal ingredients allow each flavor to shine, making it a simple yet impressive dish.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality prosciutto and fresh basil. Additionally, let your pizza dough rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using, which helps achieve a better texture and flavor in the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the pizza ahead of time. Assemble it up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.

If you need a substitute for prosciutto, consider using thinly sliced cooked ham or pancetta for a similar salty flavor. Alternatively, you can use roasted vegetables or a blend of mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. You can also check the bottom of the crust; it should be crispy and firm to the touch.

Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to eat, bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serve this pizza with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A glass of white wine or sparkling water pairs beautifully with the dish as well.

Leftover Prosciutto Basil White Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Yes, you can prepare the components of the pizza in advance. You can make the dough and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

The best way to reheat your pizza is in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the crust while warming the toppings evenly.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your pizza turns out too dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough sauce.

Solution: To avoid dryness, keep an eye on the cooking time and ensure you're using enough sauce for moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: A pizza that isn't crispy can be a result of not using a hot enough oven or baking surface.

Solution: Ensure your oven is preheated fully and consider using a pizza stone to help achieve a crispy crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If your pizza is overcooked, the crust may be too dark or burnt.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, check the pizza a few minutes before the suggested cooking time and adjust your oven temperature if necessary.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the pizza is too thick or the oven temperature is too low.

Recovery: If you encounter this issue, return the pizza to the oven and cook for a few more minutes. You can also cover the edges with foil to prevent them from burning.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can happen if the pizza is too close to the heating element or cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: To avoid a burnt exterior, place the pizza at the center of the oven and monitor the baking closely.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your pizza tastes too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt or some acidity with lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the pizza is too salty, add more cheese or a drizzle of olive oil to mellow the flavors.

Bland: For a bland pizza, increase the seasoning with herbs, salt, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Prosciutto Basil White Pizza

Essential Ingredients for Prosciutto Basil White Pizza

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients that create the perfect flavor profile. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella provides creaminess, while prosciutto adds a savory, salty depth. Fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic qualities, making each bite a delight.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best results. Fresh mozzarella and prosciutto will enhance the flavors significantly. Whenever possible, choose organic and locally sourced ingredients to support sustainability and enjoy superior taste.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer texture. Look for brands that use minimal additives for the best flavor and creaminess.
  • Prosciutto: Choose high-quality, thinly sliced prosciutto for the best results. The flavor should be savory and slightly sweet, enhancing the overall taste of the pizza.
  • Fresh Basil: Always use fresh basil for the best flavor. Avoid dried basil as it lacks the aromatic qualities that fresh basil brings to the dish.
Cooking process for Prosciutto Basil White Pizza

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Prosciutto Basil White Pizza is a straightforward process that anyone can master. From preparing the dough to assembling and baking, each step is designed to create a delicious pizza with minimal effort. The key is ensuring that your oven is at the right temperature for a crispy crust.

Following the steps carefully will lead you to perfectly cooked pizza. The combination of the creamy cheese with the crispy crust and savory toppings creates a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.

Key Technique for Perfect Prosciutto Basil White Pizza

The most important technique for achieving the perfect Prosciutto Basil White Pizza is baking it at a high temperature on a preheated stone. This ensures a crispy crust while keeping the toppings perfectly cooked and flavorful.

Prosciutto Basil White Pizza

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    Creamy base
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
    Adds flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb pizza dough
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese
    Shredded
  • 4 oz prosciutto
    Thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For topping
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For drizzling
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
    Torn
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
    Finishing touch
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
    Optional for heat

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

  2. Prepare Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a cornmeal-dusted parchment paper.

  3. Make Sauce

    In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.

  4. Assemble Pizza

    Spread the ricotta mixture over the pizza dough, leaving a small border. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

  5. Add Prosciutto

    Layer the prosciutto slices evenly on top of the cheese.

  6. Bake

    Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

  7. Finish with Basil

    Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then top with fresh basil leaves.

  8. Slice and Serve

    Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy your Prosciutto Basil White Pizza!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave if you're short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Prosciutto Basil White Pizza with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water enhances the meal beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your pizza by adding ingredients like spinach, artichokes, or different cheeses. For a spicy kick, include jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the toppings.