Are you a pizza lover? If so, you must have tasted white pizza. A 1/4 pizza (149 g) of white pizza contains about 370 calories.

White pizza is a delicious pizza variety. Unlike the traditional tomato sauce-based pizza, it is topped with alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and some other toppings. If you are calorie conscious, you should know that a single slice of white pizza can contain up to 400 calories, depending on its toppings.

Here is everything you need to know about white pizza, from its calorie breakdown to its health benefits and drawbacks.

What is White Pizza?

White pizza is a pizza variety with a unique set of toppings. Unlike the traditional tomato sauce-based pizza, it's topped with alfredo sauce or other types of creamy sauces. It's generally made with mozzarella cheese, although some other cheese varieties may be used. Other toppings usually include garlic, mushrooms, onions, chicken, or ham. It's a popular choice among pizza lovers who want a change from the traditional tomato sauce-based pizza. White pizza originated from Naples, Italy, and quickly gained popularity worldwide.

Calorie Breakdown of White Pizza

An average 1/4 pizza (149 g) of white pizza contains around 370 calories. It's a high-calorie food, and its calorie content can vary depending on the toppings used. For example, a slice of white pizza with spinach and ricotta cheese can contain up to 520 calories. If you're conscious about your calorie intake, it's best to enjoy white pizza in moderation. You can also choose to customize your white pizza to make it a healthier option by using healthy toppings like vegetables and lean proteins.

White Pizza Crust

White pizza can be made with several types of crusts, including the traditional hand-tossed crust or the thin crust. Some restaurants may also prepare white pizza on a crispy crust, which is a pizza base made by deep-frying the dough. Regardless of the crust type, white pizza crust is usually brushed with garlic butter for added flavor. It's chewy, flavorful, and a perfect match for the creamy sauce and cheese.

Toppings on White Pizza

White pizza toppings can vary widely, depending on your preference. Common toppings include mozzarella cheese, alfredo sauce, spinach, mushrooms, onions, chicken, ham, or bacon. You can also choose to incorporate healthy toppings like bell peppers, olives, or grilled chicken to make it a healthier option. Ultimately, toppings on white pizza are a matter of personal preference, and you can customize your white pizza to your liking.

Health Benefits of White Pizza

Although white pizza is known for its high-calorie content, it comes with some nutritional benefits. For instance, it's an excellent source of protein, given that it's made with mozzarella cheese and some toppings like chicken or ham. It's also a source of vitamins and minerals from its vegetable toppings. Spinach, for example, is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and iron. Furthermore, alfredo sauce used in white pizza contains more healthy fats and fewer carbs than tomato sauce, making it an excellent option for people on a low-carb diet.

Drawbacks of Consuming White Pizza

While white pizza can be delicious, it comes with some drawbacks. For starters, it's high in calories, and consuming it regularly can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Additionally, the cheese and creamy sauce used in white pizza can be high in saturated fats, which are known to increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. It's also not a good option for people with lactose intolerance or those sensitive to gluten, depending on the crust type used.

Alternatives to White Pizza

If you're looking for pizza alternatives, there are several options to choose from. For instance, you can try gluten-free pizza if you're sensitive to gluten. Its crust is made using gluten-free flour. You can also choose to have a vegetable pizza that's made entirely of veggies on a cauliflower crust. Low-carb pizza crust is also an excellent option for people on keto or low-carb diets. Ultimately, there is an option for everyone when it comes to pizza.

How to Make White Pizza at Home

Want to enjoy white pizza at home? Here's an easy-to-follow recipe you can try. First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Then, brush your pizza crust with garlic butter or olive oil. Spread the alfredo sauce on the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Add your cheese and toppings, then sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Comparison with Other Pizzas

Compared to other pizza types, white pizza is higher in calories due to its creamy sauce and cheese. For instance, a standard pepperoni pizza contains around 285 calories in a 1/4 pizza (149 g) servings. A vegetable pizza, on the other hand, contains around 250-300 calories in a similar serving size. So, if you're watching your caloric intake, it's best to choose vegetable pizza over white pizza.

Serving Recommendations

White pizza is best enjoyed in moderation, given its high calorie content. A single slice of white pizza can contain up to 400 calories, depending on its toppings. So, it's a good idea to pair your slice with a healthy side salad or opt for a vegetable pizza instead. If you're dining out, consider sharing your pizza with a friend or taking half of it home for later. This way, you can enjoy your favorite food without compromising your health. With the right portion control and healthy toppings, you can make white pizza a part of a balanced diet.