White pizza sauce is a creamy, savory alternative to the traditional tomato-based pizza sauce. Made from a base of butter, garlic, and cheese, it offers a rich and flavorful foundation for pizzas that appeal to those who love creamy, garlic-infused dishes. Whether you’re making pizza for a family dinner or experimenting with new flavors, white pizza sauce opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about white pizza sauce: from how to make it, to the best toppings to pair with it, and different variations you can try at home.
What is White Pizza Sauce?
White pizza sauce, sometimes referred to as garlic parmesan sauce or simply a creamy pizza sauce, is a smooth and savory sauce typically made with butter, milk or cream, garlic, flour, and cheese. It’s often used on pizzas that feature lighter toppings such as chicken, spinach, or vegetables, as it complements these ingredients with its subtle yet flavorful taste.
Unlike traditional red pizza sauce, which is tomato-based and more acidic, white pizza sauce has a mellow, creamy texture that pairs well with a wide variety of toppings.
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How to Make White Pizza Sauce at Home
White pizza sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of dried oregano (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts to foam. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to a minute, until fragrant but not browned.
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Create the roux: Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, whisking constantly. This helps to create a thick base (known as a roux) for the sauce.
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Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. The sauce will start to thicken as it heats up. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add cheese and seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano if desired. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is well-blended.
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Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook for a few more minutes to thicken up.
This white pizza sauce recipe is simple and can be made in under 15 minutes, making it a great option for weeknight pizza dinners. It’s also versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavors based on your personal preferences. Add more garlic for a bolder flavor, or mix in a little mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
Variations of White Pizza Sauce
White pizza sauce is incredibly flexible, and you can modify it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some popular variations:
1. Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This classic variation is heavy on the garlic and parmesan, giving the sauce a stronger, more robust flavor. It’s perfect for garlic lovers who enjoy a punch of flavor in every bite.
2. Cheese Cream Sauce
This version adds additional cheeses such as mozzarella or ricotta for an extra creamy and cheesy sauce. It’s ideal for those who love rich, decadent flavors.
3. Keto White Pizza Sauce
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can make a keto-friendly version by using heavy cream instead of milk and skipping the flour. This version is thicker and creamier but still low in carbs, perfect for keto pizzas.
4. Vegan White Pizza Sauce
To make a vegan-friendly version, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use almond milk or cashew cream instead of dairy milk. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Best Toppings for White Pizza Sauce
One of the best things about white pizza sauce is how versatile it is when it comes to toppings. Here are some of the top ingredients to pair with it:
1. Meat Toppings
- Grilled chicken: A light, flavorful meat that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Bacon or pancetta: Adds a salty, smoky flavor to contrast with the mild sauce.
- Italian sausage: Spicy sausage can add a bold kick to your white sauce pizza.
2. Vegetable Toppings
- Spinach: Fresh or sautéed spinach adds a mild, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Their umami taste blends beautifully with the garlic and cheese in the sauce.
- Caramelized onions: These add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Their tangy, concentrated flavor cuts through the richness of the sauce.
3. Cheese Toppings
- Mozzarella: The go-to cheese for any pizza, mozzarella melts beautifully and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Ricotta: Adds extra creaminess and a mild flavor that blends well with other toppings.
- Blue cheese: A stronger cheese that adds a sharp, tangy contrast to the mild sauce.
4. Combination Suggestions
- Chicken, spinach, and mozzarella: A classic, well-balanced combination that highlights the sauce.
- Bacon, mushrooms, and onions: A savory and satisfying option with layers of flavor.
- Vegetarian combo: Spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta for a lighter, vegetable-forward pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Pizza Sauce
Can I Make White Pizza Sauce for a Vegan or Dairy-Free Diet?
Yes! You can easily substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use almond milk or cashew cream for the base, and replace the cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Should I Store Leftover White Pizza Sauce?
White pizza sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat it gently over the stove, adding a little milk if it thickens too much in the fridge.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use in White Pizza Sauce Besides Parmesan?
While parmesan adds a nice sharpness to the sauce, you can also use asiago, romano, or even fontina for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make White Pizza Sauce Lower in Calories?
To make a lighter version of white pizza sauce, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter and cheese. Using a milk alternative like almond milk can also reduce calories while still maintaining a creamy texture.
Conclusion
White pizza sauce is a delicious and versatile alternative to traditional pizza sauce. Whether you prefer the classic garlic parmesan version or want to experiment with a keto or vegan variation, this sauce offers endless possibilities for creating unique and flavorful pizzas. Pair it with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a delicious homemade pizza that’s sure to impress.
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy your next pizza night with white pizza sauce as the star!
