White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey

One of my fondest memories is gathering with friends on a warm summer evening, the sun setting just right, and the air filled with laughter and the smell of something delicious cooking. That's when I first made my White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey. It was one of those spontaneous moments that turned into a cherished tradition. I still remember the surprised faces when they took that first bite, the perfect blend of creamy cheeses and the unexpected kick of hot honey. It's the kind of dish that brings people together, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate good company.

This pizza is perfect for any occasion - whether it's a cozy date night in or a lively gathering with friends. The combination of the savory prosciutto, rich cheeses, and that sweet-spicy drizzle of hot honey just makes my heart sing. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it a go-to for those busy evenings when you still want to impress. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that's sure to become a regular at your table!

Why You'll Love "White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey"

• This pizza comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
• It uses minimal ingredients, so you won't be hunting through your pantry for anything obscure.
• Family-friendly and a crowd-pleaser, even the picky eaters will love it!
• The creamy cheeses combined with the spicy hot honey create a flavor explosion that's simply irresistible.
• Leftovers (if there are any!) can easily be stored and reheated, making it great for lunch the next day.
• It's a versatile dish that you can tweak to fit your taste or dietary needs!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Pizza

• 12-16 oz pizza dough (room temperature for easy stretching)
• ¼ cup ricotta cheese (creamy and fresh)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella, grated if you prefer a melt-in-your-mouth texture)
• 1-2 oz grated parmesan (for that nutty flavor)
• 2-3 oz prosciutto (thinly sliced for maximum flavor)

For the Hot Honey

• 3 tablespoon honey (use a good quality honey for the best flavor)
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (add more if you like it extra spicy!)
• 1 pinch red pepper flake (for an added kick)
• ½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar (to balance the sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). You want it nice and hot for that perfect crust!
2. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it preheats. This helps the crust get that irresistible crispiness!
3. If you're using a baking sheet, lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Roll Out the Dough

1. Once your oven is preheated, take your pizza dough out and divide it in half if you're making two smaller pizzas or keep it whole for one big pizza.
2. On a floured surface, start rolling out the dough. Make it as thick or thin as you like, but I recommend about ¼ inch for that perfect bite!
3. Don't stress if it's not a perfect circle - the beauty of homemade pizza is its charm!

Add the Cheeses

1. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the rolled-out dough. I like to use a spatula - it helps keep it smooth and lovely.
2. Next, sprinkle your shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the ricotta. Don't be shy; this is where the melty goodness comes from!
3. Finally, add the grated parmesan. This adds that delightful nutty flavor that will make your taste buds sing!

Layer the Prosciutto

1. Now it's time for the prosciutto. Layer it over the cheese like a delicious blanket. I like to use a few pieces for that savory pop!
2. If you have fresh oregano, toss some on top for that extra burst of flavor. You can also use dried if that's what you have on hand.

Prepare the Hot Honey

1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, cayenne pepper, red pepper flake, and balsamic vinegar. This is where the magic happens!
2. Drizzle this spicy-sweet mixture evenly over the pizza. You want it to hit every corner for that perfect balance!

Bake the Pizza

1. Carefully transfer your pizza to the preheated oven, either onto the hot pizza stone or the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the crust to be golden brown and the cheese bubbly!
3. When it's done, take it out and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice your pizza into generous pieces. I like to use a pizza cutter for clean cuts!
2. Serve it hot, and watch everyone gather around. You might want to have extra hot honey on the side for those who crave a bit more spice!

Variations

• Swap the beef prosciutto for turkey or chicken prosciutto for a lighter option.
• Add seasonal veggies like spinach or arugula for a fresh twist.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pizza dough.
• Mix in different cheeses such as goat cheese or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
• Try a white sauce base instead of ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Make it a breakfast pizza by adding a cracked egg on top before baking!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

• Serve your White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey hot, straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair it with a light salad or garlic knots for a complete meal.
• Offer extra hot honey on the side for those who enjoy a bit more heat!

Storage

• If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

Helpful Notes

• If you're out of ricotta, cottage cheese can be a great substitute, giving a similar creamy texture.
• Feel free to adjust the level of spice by using more or less cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes according to your taste.
• For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheeses that melt well.
• Adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and add some veggies!
• Keep an eye on the pizza while baking to ensure the crust doesn't over-brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey?

Absolutely! You can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just make sure they're completely cooled before wrapping to maintain their texture.

How can I substitute ingredients?

Ingredient substitutions are easy! You can swap ricotta for cottage cheese, and mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese. Just keep the overall flavor profile in mind!

What can I use instead of prosciutto?

If you don't have prosciutto, try using turkey or chicken prosciutto, or even crispy bacon for that savory kick. Each option will provide a delightful flavor!

Final Thoughts

Cooking is all about joy, and I truly hope you find that joy in making this White Pizza with Beef Prosciutto Hot Honey. It's not just a recipe; it's an experience that brings friends and family together around the table, sharing laughter and delicious bites. Don't hesitate to make it your own with those little twists that suit your taste. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, this pizza is sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delightful creation. You've got this, and your kitchen is ready for some magic!