Grilled Pizza Bianca Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings.

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 pound prepared pizza dough
• 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream.
2. Gradually add 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth. Let the Alfredo sauce cool to room temperature, which should take about 15 minutes.
3. While the sauce is cooling, preheat your gas grill with all burners on High for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Divide the pizza dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into an 8 to 10-inch disc.
5. Reduce the heat on half of the grill burners to Low, creating areas for both direct and indirect heat.
6. Carefully place the dough discs onto the grill over direct heat. Close the grill lid. Let the dough cook for 1 to 3 minutes until the bottom is barely cooked and shows char marks.
7. Turn the dough 90 degrees (do not flip it over). Grill for another 1 to 3 minutes until light grill marks appear on the crust.
8. Move the dough to the indirect heat zone. Spoon the cooled Alfredo sauce over each dough disc.
9. Top each pizza with four slices of mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the pizzas.
10. Grill the pizzas for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
11. Carefully remove the pizzas from the grill. Preheat your oven's broiler.
12. Place the pizzas under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
13. Let the pizzas rest for a few minutes before cutting them into wedges and serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	654
Total Fat	35g (45%)
Saturated Fat	18g (90%)
Cholesterol	96mg (32%)
Sodium	1241mg (54%)
Total Carbohydrates	57g (21%)
Dietary Fiber	2g (7%)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	27g (55%)
Vitamin C	0mg (0%)
Calcium	526mg (40%)
Iron	3mg (19%)
Potassium	189mg (4%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story and Charm of Grilled Pizza Bianca

Grilled Pizza Bianca, literally "white pizza," has its origins in Italy, where the tradition of cooking flatbreads with minimal toppings has existed for centuries. Unlike the classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, Pizza Bianca relies on the simplicity and richness of cheeses, olive oil, and sometimes cream or herbs. This minimalist approach highlights the natural flavors of the dough and cheese, making it a favorite for those who appreciate culinary purity. Historically, it was often prepared in communal wood-fired ovens, a staple of Italian village life, and enjoyed as a quick snack or light meal.

Regional Variations

Though Pizza Bianca can be found throughout Italy, each region adds its unique touch. In Rome, for instance, the pizza is often thinner and crispier, sometimes sprinkled with rosemary and coarse salt. In Liguria, it may include a drizzle of pesto or a light coating of olive oil, giving it a fragrant, herby aroma. Southern regions, such as Campania, favor a creamier topping with fresh cheeses like mozzarella di bufala, sometimes adding a subtle layer of garlic butter to enhance flavor. These regional differences showcase Italys culinary diversity and respect for local ingredients.

Distinguishing Features

Grilled Pizza Bianca stands apart from traditional pizzas and other flatbreads in several ways. Its lack of tomato sauce sets it apart from the classic Neapolitan pizza, focusing instead on cheeses and simple seasonings. The grilling method, rather than baking in an oven, imparts a smoky char and a slightly crisp texture that cannot be replicated indoors. Additionally, its use of fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese layered over a lightly brushed dough creates a luxurious, creamy flavor profile, making it distinct from simpler focaccias or cheesy breads.

Typical Serving Contexts

This pizza is versatile in where it is served. It is a popular choice at casual summer gatherings, barbecues, or outdoor dining experiences due to the ease of grilling. In Italy, it may be found in pizzerias specializing in regional breads or at street markets as a grab-and-go snack. Modern restaurants outside Italy often present it as a gourmet appetizer or light entre, paired with fresh salads, olives, and a crisp white wine to complement the delicate flavors.

Interesting Facts

Despite its simplicity, Grilled Pizza Bianca has surprising culinary versatility. It can be adapted with seasonal ingredients, from sauted mushrooms to fresh herbs, while still maintaining its signature lightness. Its grilled preparation gives it a slightly smoky aroma reminiscent of wood-fired pizza, offering a taste that is both rustic and sophisticated. Interestingly, in Rome, "Pizza Bianca" is so common that locals often enjoy it plain, simply sprinkled with olive oil and salt, proving that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most beloved. Furthermore, its low-acid profile makes it a favorite for those sensitive to tomato-based sauces, broadening its appeal across dietary preferences.

FAQ about Grilled Pizza Bianca Recipe