Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
If you love pizza but want to elevate it beyond the typical tomato base, this Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe is an absolute game changer. It’s smooth, rich, and bursting with the aromatic goodness of garlic and herbs, creating the perfect luxurious canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next pizza party, this sauce adds that decadent flair without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this sauce lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, yet each brings something essential to the table. From the velvety butter for richness to the fragrant garlic that ignites flavor, every component has a special role in creating a perfectly balanced, creamy white pizza sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a smooth, buttery base that helps blend the flavors seamlessly.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): The star aromatic that infuses the sauce with that irresistible savory punch.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Acts as the thickening agent, giving the sauce its luscious creamy texture.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds a mild creaminess and helps create a silky consistency.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Intensifies the richness, making the sauce decadently smooth and luscious.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty depth that perfectly complements the garlic.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthiness and classic Italian herb flavor.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a slightly sweet, fragrant note that enhances the herbal profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the other flavors.
How to Make Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. This step is crucial—cooking the garlic just right prevents any bitterness and builds a deep, flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 2: Whisk in the Flour
Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk it constantly for about a minute. This creates a roux, which is essential for thickening your sauce. Cooking the flour briefly removes that raw taste and ensures your sauce will be silky rather than grainy.
Step 3: Gradually Add Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Keep whisking as the mixture heats up and begins to thicken. This gradual addition keeps the sauce silky smooth and creamy, building the luxurious texture that makes the Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe truly stand out.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Herbs
Once your sauce has reached a gentle simmer and thickened, add in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together carefully and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully. This is where your sauce really develops that classic Italian charm.
Step 5: Finish and Cool
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly before using. This rest time helps the sauce thicken just a bit more, making it perfect for spreading on your pizza dough or using as a dip. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for later use.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The creamy garlic white pizza sauce acts as an inviting base, so when it comes to garnishes, think fresh and vibrant. Try sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright herbal touch. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few flakes of crushed red pepper can add an exciting finish and hint of heat, perfectly balancing the sauce’s richness.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs wonderfully with lighter sides that won’t steal the spotlight. A crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini complement the creamy texture nicely. Garlic knots or a simple bruschetta also make fantastic side dishes to mirror the garlic-forward flavor of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t limit yourself to just classic pizza—this sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a decadent dip for breadsticks or roasted potatoes, spread it inside a calzone for extra creaminess, or layer it under grilled chicken or mushrooms for a rich twist on flatbreads. It’s the perfect sauce for those moments you want a little extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover creamy garlic white pizza sauce is best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to preserve the rich flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
You can also freeze this sauce for longer storage. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy the sauce again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat while stirring frequently. If it feels too thick, whisk in a splash of milk to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency. Avoid heating on high to keep the sauce from separating or curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a classic, nutty flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite or Asiago for a creamier texture. Just remember to adjust salt accordingly since different cheeses vary in saltiness.
Is this sauce suitable for lactose intolerant individuals?
This recipe uses butter, milk, and cream, so it is not lactose-free. However, you could try substituting lactose-free milk and cream alternatives, but that might slightly change the richness and taste.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried oregano and basil?
Yes! Fresh herbs like basil and oregano add a vibrant aroma and fresh taste. Add them toward the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve their bright flavors.
How thick should the sauce be when I’m done?
The sauce should be thick enough to spread easily on your pizza dough without running, similar to a creamy béchamel. It will thicken slightly as it cools, so a medium-thick consistency while hot is perfect.
Can I make this sauce vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and use plant-based milk and cream alternatives like cashew or coconut cream. Nutritional yeast can be used in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying staples that will quickly become your go-to for elevating homemade pizza nights. Its rich, garlicky creaminess creates an irresistible base that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings and is easy enough for any skill level. Give it a try and watch your pizza creations reach delicious new heights!
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Creamy Garlic White Pizza Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup (enough for 1 large pizza) 1x
Description
This creamy garlic white pizza sauce is a rich and flavorful alternative to traditional tomato-based sauces. Made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese, it offers a smooth and velvety texture that perfectly complements a variety of pizza toppings. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s an easy way to elevate your homemade pizza experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, releasing its rich aroma.
- Add Flour and Cook: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and continue cooking for 1 minute. Stir constantly to form a smooth roux and prevent lumps.
- Incorporate Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. This steady whisking avoids lumps and ensures a smooth mixture. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish and Store: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool slightly before using it on your pizza. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- This sauce works well not only for pizza but also as a base for creamy pasta dishes.
- Make sure to whisk constantly when adding milk and cream to prevent lumps.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently before use.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
