When I’m craving homemade pizza that feels indulgent and just a little fancy, I skip the traditional tomato sauce and make this creamy white pizza sauce instead. It’s rich, garlicky, and full of flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted veggies to grilled chicken or even simple mozzarella. I first made this sauce on a whim during a pizza night at home, and now I can’t imagine pizza night without it.
Whether you’re making homemade pizza from scratch or dressing up a store-bought crust, this white sauce is a game-changer. Let me show you exactly why I love it and how easy it is to whip up in just a few minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This creamy white pizza sauce has quickly become one of my kitchen staples. Here’s why it works so well:
- Simple ingredients, bold flavor: You only need a handful of ingredients, but each one adds depth.
- Perfectly balanced richness: Cream and butter make it velvety smooth, while garlic and parmesan add flavor and sharpness.
- Customizable: Add herbs, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest for different flavor profiles.
- Quick to make: It comes together in less than 10 minutes.
- Not just for pizza: I also use this sauce for pasta, dipping breadsticks, or even drizzling over roasted vegetables.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes enough for 2 large pizzas | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 7 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley (optional)
How I Make Creamy White Pizza Sauce (Step-by-Step)
1. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic
I start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted and starting to bubble slightly, I add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. The kitchen instantly smells amazing.
2. Make the Roux
I whisk in the flour and cook it for about one minute until it’s lightly golden. This step helps thicken the sauce and ensures a smooth texture.
3. Add Milk and Cream
Slowly, I pour in the milk and cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. I keep whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings
I remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. If I’m in the mood, I add a pinch of Italian herbs or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
5. Taste and Adjust
I always give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes I add a touch more cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice if I want brightness.
6. Use Immediately or Store
This sauce is ready to use right away on pizza crust, but it also stores well. If I make it ahead of time, I let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
My Favorite Tips for Perfect White Pizza Sauce
- Use freshly grated parmesan: It melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t rush the thickening: Let the sauce cook on medium heat, whisking frequently, until it thickens to a silky consistency.
- Add herbs to complement your pizza toppings: I love basil and oregano for veggie pizzas, and rosemary for chicken-based toppings.
- Make it spicy: A little crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne takes the flavor to the next level.
- Thin it out if needed: If the sauce thickens too much, I whisk in a splash of milk until it’s just right.
How I Use This White Pizza Sauce
While pizza is the obvious use, I find myself reaching for this sauce in all kinds of ways:
- Spread on flatbreads with grilled chicken and spinach
- Drizzled over roasted vegetables for a quick side dish
- Tossed with pasta for a creamy, luxurious weeknight dinner
- Used as a dip for breadsticks, garlic knots, or even fries
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. I recommend using at least a little heavy cream for the best texture.
Q: How long will this sauce keep in the fridge?
A: It keeps well for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently and whisk if it separates.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: I don’t recommend freezing because the dairy can separate. It’s best made fresh or stored in the fridge short-term.
Why This White Pizza Sauce Belongs in Your Recipe Collection
This creamy white pizza sauce is one of those small kitchen wins that makes homemade pizza feel restaurant-worthy. It’s rich, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to make with pantry staples. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how something simple can completely elevate a dish. Whether you’re topping a pizza crust, drizzling it over pasta, or using it as a dipping sauce, this recipe is one you’ll want to have on repeat.
Give it a try and I promise you’ll never look at pizza night the same way again.
The Secret to Irresistible Homemade White Pizza Sauce You’ll Want to Put on Everything
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Slowly whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If desired, add crushed red pepper flakes and Italian herbs or parsley for additional flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using on your pizza.
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