With the smell of freshly baked dough wafting through the kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of how lovely it is to indulge in a slice of White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey. This gourmet pizza, boasting a creamy blend of ricotta and mozzarella, is elevated by the savory goodness of salty beef prosciutto and a whisper of homemade hot honey that adds the perfect kick. Not only is this dish a showstopper for entertaining friends and family, but it also comes together quickly, making it a weeknight favorite when I need comfort food that impresses. Ready to dive into a pizza experience that’s anything but ordinary? Let’s get started!
Why is this pizza so irresistible?
Gourmet Touch: This White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey is a sophisticated twist on traditional pizza that captivates with every bite.
Quick and Easy: Despite its gourmet flair, this recipe is simple, requiring minimal prep time for a homemade masterpiece.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy cheeses, savory prosciutto, and sweet heat from the hot honey creates a mouthwatering fusion that’s hard to resist.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to switch up the toppings or cheese as your cravings dictate, making it versatile enough for any palate.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal that impresses. Enjoy a slice that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey Ingredients
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – The base structure of the pizza; make sure it’s at room temperature for better stretchability.
For the Cheese
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy layer with a slight tang; cottage cheese can be used for a lighter option.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides that gooey, melty texture essential for pizza; fresh mozzarella works well—just remember to drain it properly.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate the pizza; pecorino Romano can be a great alternative for a bolder taste.
For the Toppings
- Beef Prosciutto – The main protein and salty topping that crisps beautifully when baked; regular prosciutto or pancetta can be substituted if necessary.
- Fresh Oregano – Enhances the pizza with its peppery aroma; dried oregano can be used in smaller amounts if fresh isn’t available.
For the Sweet & Spicy Drizzle
- Honey – Provides sweetness and a sticky texture for the hot honey drizzle; wildflower honey is preferable for added flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper – Infuses heat into the hot honey; adjust according to spice preference or replace with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Red Pepper Flake – Enhances the spiciness and is optional based on personal heat preferences.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Balances the sweetness of the honey with subtle acidity; skipping it may result in a sweeter pizza.
Let’s gather these ingredients and create a stunning White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey that will astonish your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to a sizzling 475°F-500°F (245°C-260°C). This ensures a crispy crust. If you have a pizza stone or steel, place it inside the oven while it heats, allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking. While the oven warms up, let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to stretch.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
On a clean, floured surface, take your room-temperature pizza dough and lightly stretch it into your desired shape. Aim for a roughly 12-inch round or rectangle, ensuring it retains a nice thickness. If the dough feels stiff, let it rest for a few more minutes. Once shaped, carefully transfer it onto a floured pizza peel or prepared parchment paper, ready for toppings.
Step 3: Add the Cheese Layers
Spread a generous layer of creamy ricotta cheese evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. This rich base is the star of your White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey. Next, shower the pizza with shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top to create that delightful, melty layer.
Step 4: Top with Beef Prosciutto
Now it’s time to elevate this gourmet pizza! Tear or drape thin slices of beef prosciutto generously over the cheese layer. The salty flavors will crisp beautifully in the oven. Then, scatter fresh oregano leaves evenly across the toppings for a burst of aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheeses.
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few red pepper flakes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This concoction will create the sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle that sets your pizza apart. Adjust the cayenne according to your heat preference, ensuring a balanced flavor that complements the savory toppings.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Carefully slide your assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or steel in the oven. Bake for about 8-12 minutes until the crust is golden and bubbles delightfully over the cheese. Keep an eye on it toward the end to prevent any burning, ensuring a perfectly cooked gourmet pizza experience.
Step 7: Drizzle the Hot Honey
With the pizza just about done, remove it from the oven and immediately drizzle your hot honey mixture over the top. This should be done during the last minute of baking or right after taking it out. The heat will help the honey melt slightly, creating a beautiful glaze over your pizza that makes each bite irresistible.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Let your White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up just slightly. Then, slice it into generous pieces and serve immediately. Enjoy the combination of creamy, savory, and sweet flavors that will surely impress anyone at your dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pizza dough and the honey drizzle up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it, allowing it to come to room temperature before stretching and baking. The hot honey mixture can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just warm it slightly before drizzling to maintain its luscious consistency. When ready to serve, assemble the pizza with the ricotta, mozzarella, and prosciutto, bake for 8-12 minutes, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for White Pizza
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven and pizza stone/steel are thoroughly preheated for a perfectly crispy crust. Skipping this step can lead to soggy pizza!
- Dough Handling: Be gentle when stretching the dough to avoid toughening; if it’s too stiff, let it rest longer to relax the gluten.
- Drizzle Technique: Drizzle the hot honey in a zig-zag motion for even distribution. This ensures each slice of your White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto gets the right balance of sweet and spicy.
- Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on your pizza as it bakes, especially toward the end, to prevent burning. Everyone loves a golden crust, not a charred one!
- Cooling Time: Allow the pizza to rest briefly before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the ricotta and mozzarella for cashew cheese to keep it creamy without dairy. You won’t miss the original flavors!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat or drizzle with spicy chili oil for a fiery twist that will excite your palate.
- Veggie Boost: Load on fresh spinach or arugula before baking for a vibrant pop of color and nutrients, bringing freshness to each bite.
- Nutty Texture: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses. This adds an extra dimension to your pizza.
- Sweet Surprise: Thinly slice peaches or pears and scatter them over the pizza for a sweet-and-savory combo that pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto.
- Sauce It Up: Instead of drizzling hot honey, slather a layer of pesto on the dough before adding cheese for an herby boost of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Flatbread Fun: Transform this dish into hot honey flatbreads using store-bought naan or pita as a quick and easy alternative—perfect for a fun appetizer! Check out my Honey Flatbread Pizza for inspiration.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh basil or thyme into your ricotta blend for an aromatic surprise. A little freshness goes a long way in enhancing flavors!
Explore these variations and make this White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto
Fridge: Store leftover White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps to restore the crispiness of the crust.
What to Serve with White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey
Let the tantalizing aromas of this gourmet pizza inspire the rest of your meal for a truly memorable dining experience.
- Crisp Arugula Salad: A refreshing salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette perfectly balances the rich flavors of the pizza.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks with garlic and herbs provide a delightful dipping experience for your hot honey drizzles.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add a colorful, earthy contrast and enhance the overall diner’s delight.
- Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the sweetness of the honey while refreshing the palate.
- Soft Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of soft cheeses with fruit – perfect for contrasting textures and flavors while guests mingle.
- Dark Chocolate Tart: Finish the night with a bittersweet chocolate tart, perfectly echoing the bold flavors from your pizza masterpiece!
White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cheese is fresh enough to use?
Look for cheese that has a clean, creamy appearance without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh ricotta should smell mild and slightly sweet, while mozzarella should be moist and tender. If your cheese has been stored properly in the fridge and is within its expiration date, it should be safe to use.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy texture.
Can I freeze my pizza?
Absolutely! To freeze your White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto, slice the pizza and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above for the best results.
What should I do if my pizza crust is soggy?
If your crust becomes soggy, it could be due to too much moisture from the cheese or toppings. To avoid this, ensure that you’re using drained mozzarella and not adding too many wet ingredients. If you find yourself with a soggy crust after baking, you can try briefly baking it on a hot pizza stone for an additional 3-5 minutes to help crisp it up.
Is there a way to adjust the spiciness of the hot honey?
Yes! You can easily customize the heat level of your hot honey by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes according to your preference. If you prefer a milder sweetness, reduce the spices or omit the red pepper flakes altogether. Enjoy experimenting with flavors that suit your taste!
White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey That Wows Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to a sizzling 475°F-500°F (245°C-260°C) and place a pizza stone inside.
- Lightly stretch the room-temperature pizza dough into a 12-inch shape and place on a floured pizza peel.
- Spread ricotta cheese over the dough, then add shredded mozzarella and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.
- Drape beef prosciutto over the cheese and scatter fresh oregano leaves across the toppings.
- Whisk together honey, cayenne, red pepper flakes, and balsamic vinegar for the hot honey drizzle.
- Bake the pizza for 8-12 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Drizzle the hot honey mixture over the pizza immediately after removing from the oven.
- Let the pizza rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve immediately.
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