Spinach Ricotta Pizza Recipe

If you’re searching for a pizza that feels like a warm hug from the Italian countryside, look no further than this Spinach Ricotta Pizza. It balances creamy ricotta with tender spinach, melty mozzarella, and a golden crust that’s crisp yet chewy—each bite bursting with freshness and subtle garlicky notes. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a cozy night in, this pizza is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and become a favorite in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Spinach Ricotta Pizza lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the vibrant greens to the rich cheeses, creating layers of flavor and texture that transform simple components into something extraordinary.

• 16 oz. homemade pizza dough: The perfect base that offers a chewy, golden crust, but feel free to use quality store-bought dough to save time without sacrificing taste.
• 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil: Brushed on the crust to add richness and help it turn golden and crisp in the oven.
• 3 tsp Italian seasonings (divided): A fragrant blend that infuses every bite with classic Mediterranean herbs like oregano and basil.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the richness of the cheeses.
• ¼ tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic depth without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
• 1 tsp minced garlic: Mixed right into the ricotta for bursts of fresh, savory bites throughout.
• 8 oz. ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it acts like a dreamy canvas that holds all the toppings together.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey texture pizza lovers crave.
• 10 oz. frozen chopped spinach (thawed): Provides a healthy, verdant layer packed with earthy flavor; be sure to squeeze out excess water for the best texture.
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onions: Adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle crunch that contrasts the soft cheese and spinach.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for an extra nutty flavor and a golden finish as it bakes.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Pizza

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to a blistering 460°F; this high heat ensures a beautifully crisp crust. Roll your pizza dough into a roughly 15 to 16-inch round and place it on parchment paper—this will make transferring your pizza in and out of the oven a breeze.

Step 2: Season and Brush the Crust

Combine the olive oil with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasonings, kosher salt, and garlic powder in a small dish. Using a brush, coat the outer inch of the dough with this aromatic mixture. This step gives your crust an herb-infused golden edge that’s full of flavor and inviting crunch.

Step 3: Spread the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasonings, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined. Using an offset spatula helps you spread this creamy mixture evenly across the center of the dough, avoiding the seasoned edge reserved for the crust. This layer is the creamy heart of your Spinach Ricotta Pizza.

Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Spinach

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the ricotta to create a melty, stringy cheese layer. After that, press the thawed spinach firmly in a colander to drain any excess moisture—this step is crucial to prevent a soggy pizza. Distribute the spinach evenly over the mozzarella, adjusting the amount if you want it lighter or spinach-packed.

Step 5: Top with Onions and Parmesan

Scatter the thinly sliced red onions across the pizza for vibrant color and subtle sweetness. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan over everything—this cheese adds savory depth and contributes to a gorgeous golden top as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Transfer your pizza (on the parchment paper) onto a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone and bake it in your hot oven for 12 to 13 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust has turned beautifully golden and crispy, and the cheeses are bubbling tantalizingly.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Pizza

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving can take your Spinach Ricotta Pizza to the next level. If you love a bit of zing, some crushed red pepper flakes or a scattering of fresh basil leaves will brighten things up wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Because the pizza is rich yet fresh, simple side dishes work best. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy cucumber salad balances the creaminess perfectly. Roasted garlic or a side of marinated olives also complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, slice it into wedges and serve on a large wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs. For a fun twist, try mini Spinach Ricotta Pizzas using small rounds of dough for personalized servings. You can also add roasted cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to jazz it up visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spinach Ricotta Pizza keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. To maintain the crust’s texture, avoid stacking slices; instead, separate layers with parchment paper if stacking is necessary.

Freezing

If you want to save this pizza for longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Properly stored, your pizza will stay delicious for up to one month—perfect for quick meals later on.

Reheating

The best way to warm up your leftover Spinach Ricotta Pizza is in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, allowing the crust to crisp back up while warming the toppings. Alternatively, use a 375°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, but avoid the microwave to keep it from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly to reduce moisture before adding it to the pizza. This helps prevent the crust from getting soggy while still delivering that vibrant green flavor you love.

Is it possible to make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out the regular pizza dough with your favorite gluten-free dough. Keep in mind that gluten-free doughs behave differently, so adjust cooking time as necessary and watch for doneness carefully.

What cheeses can I substitute or add?

Feel free to experiment! While ricotta and mozzarella are the stars here, adding a bit of goat cheese or fontina can introduce lovely complexity. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate spinach and garlic flavors.

Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time before baking?

You can assemble the Spinach Ricotta Pizza in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. This can actually help the flavors meld, just be sure to bring it back to room temperature briefly before placing it in the hot oven.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No problem! You can make your own quick mix by combining dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary and marjoram. This personalized blend will still give you that classic Italian flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Ricotta Pizza is like a little slice of comfort and joy rolled into one beautiful dish. Its creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with fresh spinach and aromatic herbs offers a delightful balance that’s both nourishing and indulgent. I simply can’t recommend enough making this recipe your go-to for a satisfying homemade pizza experience—grab your dough and get baking!

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