Dinner

White Garlic Pizza Sauce Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

Discover the creamy richness of white garlic pizza sauce, a delightful twist on traditional tomato bases. This sauce combines garlic, Parmesan, and a smooth milk roux to create a flavorful foundation for a delicious homemade pizza.

A close-up view of a freshly baked cheese pizza cut into six slices, with a thick, golden-brown crust surrounding a creamy layer of melted white cheese that has small bubbles and a slight golden tint in spots. The cheese is sprinkled with dried green herbs evenly covering the top. The pizza rests on a white surface with a subtle marbled texture, and the smooth cheese layer contrasts with the soft, fluffy crust edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cloves garlic, minced
1¼ cups milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons plain flour
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
Pre-made or homemade pizza dough
2 tablespoons basil, sliced into thin ribbons (for garnish)
½ teaspoon Italian herb mix
8 ounces freshly grated low-moisture mozzarella
1 teaspoon olive oil, for brushing
¼ cup extra Parmesan, shredded fresh
½ cup of the Parmesan garlic sauce you made earlier

Instructions

Step 1: In a small pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Prepare the pizza dough by brushing it lightly with olive oil.
Step 7: Spread the white garlic sauce evenly over the dough, then top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
Step 8: Bake the pizza for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh basil ribbons before serving to add a fresh, aromatic finish.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, roast the garlic before mincing to add a sweeter, milder taste.
Substitute the milk with half-and-half for a richer sauce.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
Try using fresh thyme or oregano instead of basil for a different herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftover white garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Pizza leftovers can be refrigerated for 2 to 3 days and are best reheated in an oven to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

The image shows a white marbled surface with a whole pizza sliced into eight pieces. The pizza has a thick, golden-brown crust with a slightly crispy texture around the edges. The top layer is covered evenly with melted, creamy white cheese that has small golden spots where it browned slightly. There is a light sprinkling of dried green herbs, giving texture and color contrast across the cheese. The pizza is arranged in a circular shape, and the slices have clean, even cuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter to keep it vegan-friendly. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Is this sauce suitable for freezing?

While you can freeze the sauce, its texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to one month, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently.