This white barbecue pizza is a tasty treat! With creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and sweet caramelized onions, it’s a wonderful mix of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Let’s be honest, who can resist that crispy crust? I love baking it with gooey cheese and the hint of barbecue sauce. It’s a hit at every gathering, so I make extra just to share! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use either store-bought dough for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste. If gluten-free, try using a gluten-free pizza crust mix or cauliflower crust.
White Barbecue Sauce: This is key to a unique flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make a simple mix using mayo, vinegar, and a touch of barbecue sauce. It won’t be exactly the same, but it works in a pinch!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you’re out, cream cheese can be a good substitute, or even cottage cheese for a lighter option. Blend it for a smoother consistency.
Prosciutto: This salty ham provides great flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, try pancetta or even cooked bacon. For a vegetarian option, skip it altogether or use sautéed mushrooms.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is the secret to bringing out their sweet flavor! It’s a straightforward process that just takes a little patience. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat your olive oil in the skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions and stir them to coat in the oil.
- Cook them low and slow for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper as they begin to brown. This helps draw out the moisture.
Keep an eye on them, and don’t rush! Perfectly caramelized onions should be deep brown and sweet. Trust me, it makes a big difference in flavor!
How to Make White Barbecue Pizza with Prosciutto and Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup white barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces prosciutto, chopped
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh basil or arugula
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 20-25 minutes caramelizing the onions, and 15 minutes to prepare and bake the pizza. It’s a quick and tasty dish for pizza lovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Once the oil is warm, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they turn a deep brown color and caramelize beautifully. Don’t forget to season them with a little salt and pepper. Once they are done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Dough:
While your onions are caramelizing, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Next, on a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness—thinner for a crispier crust or thicker for a chewier bite. When you’re ready, carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the white barbecue sauce evenly over the dough. Then, take the ricotta cheese and dollop it over the sauce, spreading it out gently across the surface. Now sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese equally over everything, ensuring a cheesy goodness!
4. Add Toppings:
Now it’s time to add the caramelized onions! Scatter them evenly on top of the cheese layer, followed by the chopped prosciutto. Make sure all toppings are well-distributed so every bite is flavorful.
5. Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is a lovely golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. It will smell amazing in your kitchen!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven and let it cool slightly. If you like, garnish it with fresh basil or arugula for a refreshing touch. Slice it up, serve hot, and enjoy every delicious bite of your white barbecue pizza!
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough Instead of Store-Bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can add a lovely fresh flavor to your pizza. Just make sure to allow enough time for it to rise before rolling it out. If you’re using a recipe, aim for around 1-1.5 hours of rise time for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have White Barbecue Sauce?
No problem! You can make a simple substitute by mixing mayonnaise with a little vinegar and your favorite barbecue sauce. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of mayonnaise to barbecue sauce. For added flavor, mix in some minced garlic or herbs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps keep the crust crispy!
Can I Add Different Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with other toppings you love, such as spinach, grilled chicken, or different cheeses. Just keep in mind that some toppings might release moisture, so you may need to reduce the amount of sauce or cheese to prevent a soggy crust.
