If you’ve been searching for a rich and flavorful sauce that can turn any pizza night into an unforgettable feast, you’re going to adore this Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe. This sauce is silky smooth, loaded with garlicky goodness, and perfectly balanced with herbs and cheeses that create an irresistible base for your favorite toppings. It’s comforting, decadent, and simply a game-changer compared to traditional red sauces. Once you make this sauce, you’ll find yourself reaching for it every time you want to elevate homemade pizza with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each playing a key role in building the sauce’s creamy texture and robust flavor. From the richness of butter and cream to the aromatic punch of garlic and herbs, every item is thoughtfully chosen to make your white pizza sauce unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a smooth, rich base and helps gently cook the garlic without burning.
- Minced garlic: The star ingredient, lending that wonderful aroma and classic garlicky kick.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce into a luscious, velvety consistency.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances the richness without overpowering the garlic flavor.
- Heavy cream: Enhances the luxurious, silky texture of the sauce.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out and enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle sharpness to round out the taste.
- Dried oregano: Brings a touch of herby earthiness, classic for pizza sauces.
- Dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery undertone, perfect for Italian dishes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat and complexity.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce further.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey texture we all love on pizza.
How to Make Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the freshly minced garlic and cook it gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. The goal here is to release the garlic’s fragrance without letting it brown, which would add bitterness.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously and cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste while forming a smooth roux that will thicken your sauce. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture.
Step 3: Slowly Add Milk and Cream
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. This keeps the mixture smooth, preventing lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and if you like a bit of spice, the crushed red pepper flakes. These seasonings bring depth and that characteristic pizza flavor, perfectly complementing the garlic base.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Finish
Finally, stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until they’re fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious. Be sure to remove the sauce from heat at this stage to maintain that beautiful silky texture without curdling.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh pop of flavor and color when serving this sauce on your pizza, consider tossing on some freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves just before baking. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan right after baking gives a cheesy, salty finish that really sets the sauce off beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic white sauce pairs wonderfully with crisp salads featuring mild greens or roasted veggies. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce, while garlic bread or roasted asparagus makes a satisfying accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t limit yourself to pizza when you have this luscious white garlic sauce on hand. Drizzle it over grilled chicken or roasted cauliflower for an easy dinner upgrade, or use it as a dipping sauce for homemade breadsticks. You can even toss it with pasta for a quick creamy comfort meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before using again to bring back the silky consistency.
Freezing
This sauce freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Portion it into small containers or freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating
When reheating the sauce, do so over low heat to avoid curdling. Whisk frequently and add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the consistency back to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on dairy for its creamy texture, you can substitute with plant-based milk and vegan butter, though the flavor and consistency may vary slightly. Nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan to retain a cheesy bite.
Is this sauce good for other dishes besides pizza?
Absolutely! It works wonderfully as a pasta sauce, a creamy dip, or poured over roasted vegetables or grilled meats. It’s a versatile staple to have on hand in your kitchen.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can swap dried oregano and basil for fresh herbs. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs since they are less concentrated than dried. Add fresh herbs near the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavors.
What pizza toppings pair best with this sauce?
This sauce complements toppings like spinach, mushrooms, artichokes, grilled chicken, bacon, and sun-dried tomatoes wonderfully. The creamy base balances both veggie and meat toppings deliciously.
How thick should the sauce be before spreading on pizza dough?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too runny, cook it a bit longer to reduce; if too thick, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a homemade sauce that’s both creamy and packed with vibrant garlic and herb flavors. This Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe is one of those treasures that raises your pizza game to a whole new level. I can’t recommend it enough for your next pizza night—it’s quick, straightforward, and the result is downright irresistible. Give it a try, and watch your family and friends ask for it again and again!
Print
Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups (enough for 2 medium pizzas)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy garlic white pizza sauce made with butter, garlic, milk, cream, and a blend of Italian herbs and cheeses. Perfect for spreading on pizza dough or using as a versatile pasta topping.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Make the roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
- Season the sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Incorporate cheeses: Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- Finish and cool: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before spreading it over pizza dough. Use immediately for best results or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute half of the milk with chicken broth.
- For a lighter version, use 2% milk and omit the heavy cream.
- This sauce is also delicious as a topping for pasta dishes.
