White Garlic Pizza Sauce: A Rich, Creamy Base That Elevates Every Slice

When I want to switch up pizza night with something more decadent than marinara, I make this white garlic pizza sauce. It’s creamy, garlicky, and loaded with flavor—perfect for white pizzas, cheesy bread, flatbreads, and even pasta. It’s quick to make, and once I try it, it’s hard to go back to red sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this white garlic sauce because it’s rich without being heavy, simple to make with everyday ingredients, and packed with garlicky goodness. It pairs beautifully with mozzarella, spinach, mushrooms, grilled chicken, or anything I want to layer on top of a white pizza. It also makes a great dipping sauce and stores well, so I can prep it ahead of time.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh garlic (minced)

• All-purpose flour

• Whole milk or half-and-half

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Italian seasoning or dried parsley (optional)

Directions

1. I melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. I add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring often to avoid browning.

3. I whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a smooth roux.

4. I slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

5. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and stir until it thickens—about 3–4 minutes.

6. I stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

7. I season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning, then remove from heat.

8. I let it cool slightly before spreading it onto my pizza dough or using it as a dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1½ cups of sauce, enough for 2 medium pizzas.
Prep time is 5 minutes, cook time is 10 minutes, and total time is 15 minutes.

Variations

• I use half milk and half heavy cream when I want it extra rich.

• For a spicier kick, I stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• I sometimes add shredded mozzarella or fontina to make it cheesier.

• For a herby twist, I mix in fresh basil or thyme before serving.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often. If it thickens too much, I add a splash of milk to loosen it. I don’t freeze this sauce—it can separate once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, but I prefer fresh garlic for the best flavor. If needed, I use ½ teaspoon garlic powder in place of 2 cloves.

Is this sauce only for pizza?

Not at all. I use it on flatbreads, pasta, garlic bread, or even as a dip for breadsticks and veggies.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve used plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and vegan Parmesan with great results.

Does this sauce taste like Alfredo?

It’s similar, but this has a stronger garlic presence and is slightly thicker—perfect for spreading on dough.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make it up to 2 days ahead and keep it in the fridge until I’m ready to use it.

Conclusion

This white garlic pizza sauce is a game-changer for pizza night. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make that I often find myself reaching for it instead of red sauce. Whether I’m building a white pizza with mushrooms and spinach or just want a rich dipping sauce, this recipe always delivers the perfect balance of garlic and cream.

White Garlic Pizza Sauce: A Rich, Creamy Base That Elevates Every Slice

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 1½ cups (enough for 2 pizzas)
• Category: Sauce, Pizza Topping, Dip
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American, Comfort Food
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

White Garlic Pizza Sauce is a creamy, garlicky alternative to marinara that transforms any pizza or flatbread into a rich, flavorful favorite. Made with real butter, Parmesan, and fresh garlic, this easy sauce is perfect for white pizza, garlic bread, dipping, or even pasta.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring often until fragrant.

3. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux; cook for 1 additional minute.

4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.

6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs.

8. Let cool slightly before spreading on pizza dough or using as a dip.

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Notes

• Use a mix of milk and heavy cream for extra richness.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs for a flavor boost.
• For a cheesier sauce, mix in shredded mozzarella or fontina.
• Makes enough for 2 medium pizzas or 1½ cups of sauce.
• Not freezer-friendly—store in the fridge up to 4 days.