High Protein White Pizza (No-Yeast Greek Yogurt Crust)

This High Protein White Pizza is one of those recipes that proves homemade pizza can be quick, simple, and still nourishing. Instead of a traditional yeast dough that takes hours to rise, this recipe uses a clever shortcut: Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. The result is a soft yet slightly crisp crust that comes together in minutes.

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What really makes this pizza special is the creamy white topping. A mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, garlic, and lemon zest creates a light but flavorful base. Then it’s finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for that irresistible cheesy layer everyone loves.

Each slice delivers about 18 grams of protein, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner. It’s also great when you want pizza that feels comforting but still balanced. If you’ve tried the popular 2-ingredient bagel dough, you’ll already know how magical this yogurt-based dough can be.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can keep it simple and classic or add extra toppings depending on what you have in the fridge. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that feels gourmet but takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients Needed

Below are the ingredients required to make this high protein white pizza. Exact measurements can be found in the recipe card at the end of the article.

For the Pizza Dough

Self-rising flour
Self-rising flour already contains baking powder, which helps the dough rise slightly during baking. This creates a light and fluffy texture without using yeast.

If you don’t have self-rising flour, simply combine all-purpose flour and baking powder.

Greek yogurt
Plain Greek yogurt gives the dough structure while also adding protein. It also keeps the crust tender and slightly chewy.

Full-fat or low-fat yogurt both work well. Non-fat yogurt can be used too, though it may create a slightly firmer crust.

Salt
Just a small amount enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the creamy topping.

For the White Pizza Topping

Ricotta cheese
Ricotta is the base of the creamy topping. It adds richness without making the pizza overly heavy.

Baby spinach
Fresh chopped spinach brings color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.

Frozen spinach can also be used, but make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to prevent extra moisture.

Garlic
Fresh garlic adds depth and a savory aroma that enhances the entire pizza.

Lemon zest
A small amount of lemon zest brightens the ricotta mixture and balances the richness of the cheese.

Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that classic stretchy pizza texture.

For best results, shred your own mozzarella instead of using pre-shredded cheese.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a sharp, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta mixture.

Black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes
These add gentle heat and extra flavor to the topping.

Olive oil (optional)
A light drizzle before baking helps the pizza develop a golden finish and enhances the flavor.

How to Make High Protein White Pizza

Before starting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with olive oil.

Prepare the Dough

Start by making the quick no-yeast dough.

Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and begin mixing with a spatula until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Step 2:
Use your hands to bring the dough together into a ball. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

This short kneading time helps the dough hold its shape while still staying soft.

Shape the Pizza

Step 3:
Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a 12–14 inch circle. You can gently fold the edges inward to create a small crust border.

Step 4:
Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake the crust for about 8 minutes before adding the toppings.

Pre-baking the crust helps ensure the bottom becomes crispy and doesn’t turn soggy once the toppings are added.

Alternative Baking Method

If you prefer to skip pre-baking, you can place the toppings directly onto the raw dough and bake everything together.

However, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly. If the cheese begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the pizza with foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Prepare the White Topping

While the crust is baking, prepare the creamy topping mixture.

In a medium bowl, combine:

• Ricotta cheese
• Chopped spinach
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Lemon zest

Mix everything together until well combined.

This mixture acts as the “white sauce” for the pizza and provides most of the flavor.

Assemble the Pizza

Once the crust has finished its first bake, remove it from the oven.

Spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the surface of the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.

Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.

Finish with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

A light drizzle of olive oil at this stage is optional but adds extra flavor and helps the cheese brown beautifully.

Bake the Pizza

Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 6–8 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and the top becomes lightly golden.

Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes cutting easier.

The finished pizza should have a crispy crust, creamy topping, and perfectly melted cheese.

Variations & Tips

This high protein white pizza is incredibly versatile. You can keep it simple or add extra ingredients for a more indulgent or nutrient-packed version:

• Fresh greens: Top the baked pizza with a handful of arugula or baby kale for a fresh, peppery flavor.
• Extra vegetables: Add sliced roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, halved cherry tomatoes, or olives for more color and texture.
• Protein boost: Mix in shredded cooked chicken, crumbled chicken sausage, or even cooked shrimp to increase the protein content further.
• Herbs: Finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or fresh basil sprinkled over the ricotta mixture adds an aromatic flavor.
• Adjusting dough consistency: Yogurt can vary in water content. If the dough feels dry, add a teaspoon of extra yogurt or water. If it’s too sticky, add a little flour.
• Cheese tips: Freshly shred mozzarella and Parmesan for better melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

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Common Questions

How do I store leftover pizza?
Allow the pizza to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat it?
Heat slices in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat on the stove. Cover with a lid until the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the crust may become soggy.

What is white pizza?
White pizza skips traditional tomato sauce and instead uses a creamy cheese-based topping. It’s lighter than a regular pizza but still rich and flavorful.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can substitute plain yogurt (any fat content) or even sour cream, though yogurt provides extra protein and a slight tang that balances the cheese.

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