If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for a pizza sauce that’s both creamy and savory, with just the right hint of garlicky magic, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this White Garlic Pizza Sauce. It’s rich yet delicate, perfectly balancing buttery flavors with notes of Parmesan and Italian herbs. Whether you’re out to impress friends on pizza night or craving something cozy to drizzle over roasted veggies, this sauce is destined to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a fabulous White Garlic Pizza Sauce is surprisingly effortless when you use a handful of classic staples. Each ingredient pulls its own weight, enhancing the sauce’s flavor while building that beautifully creamy texture and irresistible aroma.
- Unsalted Butter: The silky base that helps everything meld together while adding a subtle, rich flavor.
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: The star of the show, offering pungent, freshly-minced zip that infuses every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates a simple roux for a stable, thick sauce that won’t slide off your pizza.
- Whole Milk: Ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without being overly heavy.
- Heavy Cream: Adds lusciousness and helps the sauce cling to every nook of your crust.
- Salt: Brings out all the aromatic and cheesy notes, making them pop in the final sauce.
- Black Pepper: Offers a gentle bite that complements the richness without overwhelming.
- Dried Oregano: Contributes a touch of earthiness and familiar comfort, like all great pizza sauces.
- Dried Basil: Lends a sweet, fragrant lift that plays beautifully with the garlic and cheese.
- Onion Powder: Adds depth and balances the sauce’s garlicky undertones.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: The final flourish, melting into the sauce for nutty, savory perfection.
How to Make White Garlic Pizza Sauce
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic
Begin by placing a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once it starts bubbling gently, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about one minute—just until it turns fragrant and mellow, but don’t let it brown. Stir constantly, letting that heavenly aroma fill your kitchen while you build the all-important foundation of this White Garlic Pizza Sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour directly into the melted butter and garlic mixture. Whisk them together for about a minute—this step cooks out any raw flour flavor and creates a roux, which acts as the backbone for your thick, creamy sauce. This quick step is what transforms everything from watery to wonderfully velvety.
Step 3: Whisk in Milk and Cream
Slowly pour the whole milk into the saucepan, whisking constantly to keep things smooth and lump-free. Add the heavy cream, then continue stirring for about three to five minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening gently, developing that luxuriously creamy texture that makes White Garlic Pizza Sauce so irresistible.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add in the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and onion powder. These little flavor boosters transform your sauce from simple creaminess to full-on pizzeria magic. Stir to combine and let the herbs rehydrate in the hot sauce, releasing all their aroma.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Take the saucepan off the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese straight in. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce turns silky smooth. That’s when you know it’s ready—rich, cheesy, garlicky, and perfect.
Step 6: Cool and Use
Let your White Garlic Pizza Sauce cool for a minute or two. This makes it easier to spread and just thick enough to cling lovingly to your pizza dough. Trust me, this resting step ensures every bit ends up on your pizza, not pooled on your cutting board.
How to Serve White Garlic Pizza Sauce
Garnishes
Sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan, a dusting of red pepper flakes, or a flutter of fresh chopped parsley on top to make each slice as visually stunning as it is delicious. These little finishing touches highlight the creamy base and let that garlic flavor shine even brighter.
Side Dishes
This White Garlic Pizza Sauce pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, tangy marinated olives, or a pile of roasted vegetables. It’s also a hit as a warm dipping sauce for breadsticks, cheesy garlic knots, or even steamed broccoli for a little indulgence on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Try drizzling leftover sauce over baked potatoes, tossing with freshly cooked pasta, or layering into a white lasagna. The sauce’s creamy richness and bold garlic notes let it play well in all sorts of dishes—not just pizza! Let your imagination run wild and discover your new favorite pairings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any White Garlic Pizza Sauce left after pizza night (a big “if”!), simply let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, making it a breeze to whip up easy weeknight meals later in the week.
Freezing
Want to make a batch for future cravings? You absolutely can! After cooling, transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container or even ice cube trays for handy portioning. It’ll stay fresh for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring your White Garlic Pizza Sauce back to its creamy, dreamy self, reheat it slowly over low heat on the stovetop, whisking frequently. If it feels a little thick, just splash in a bit of extra milk until it’s smooth and spreadable. Avoid microwaving for best texture, though a gentle zap can work in a pinch with frequent stirring.
FAQs
Can I use skim milk or half-and-half instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with skim for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich. Half-and-half works nicely as a middle ground, offering creamy texture with fewer calories than heavy cream.
Is there a vegan version of White Garlic Pizza Sauce?
Yes! Swap the butter for vegan margarine, use unsweetened non-dairy milk and plant-based cream, and opt for nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan in place of the cheese. It won’t be quite the same, but it’s still deliciously garlicky and creamy.
Can I make the sauce thinner or thicker?
Of course! For a thinner sauce, simply add more milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer something extra thick for dipping, let it cook a minute longer or add a touch more flour during the roux step.
What types of pizza does this pair best with?
White Garlic Pizza Sauce is amazing on classic Margherita, spinach and artichoke, wild mushroom, or even barbecue chicken pizzas. Its creamy, cheesy base lets you get creative with toppings—you simply can’t go wrong!
Can I prep this sauce ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! In fact, making White Garlic Pizza Sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld. Just reheat gently before spreading it on your pizzas, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about when guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making a White Garlic Pizza Sauce at home, now is the perfect time to start. One batch and you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my kitchen—versatile, easy, and truly irresistible. Grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a homemade pizza experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
