Name: White Pizza Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cups whole milk; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Creamy, garlicky, and full of flavor, this white pizza sauce has become my go-to when I want something a little different from the usual red. It’s simple, quick, and packed with comforting richness that works beautifully on pizza, pasta, or even as a dip. Whether I’m pairing it with sautéed mushrooms, tender chicken, or fresh spinach, it always delivers that perfect savory touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this sauce transforms a basic pizza into something gourmet. It’s incredibly easy to whip up with just a few pantry staples, and the flavor is bold without being overpowering. The texture is velvety smooth, thanks to the butter and milk base, and the Parmesan and garlic bring depth and balance. It’s a fantastic base for white pizzas, creamy pasta dishes, or dipping garlic breadsticks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 1/4 cups whole milk

1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Directions

I start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Once melted, I whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a smooth roux, making sure to stir constantly.

Gradually, I whisk in the milk, making sure it blends smoothly without lumps.

I continue cooking and stirring for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely.

Then I stir in the salt, black pepper, and minced garlic, letting it simmer for another minute to infuse the flavor.

I take the pan off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

I let it cool slightly before using it on pizza dough, or I pour it straight over pasta or serve it warm as a dip.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories per Serving: 110 kcal

Variations

I sometimes switch things up depending on the dish. For a spicy twist, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. When I want it extra cheesy, I’ll stir in a bit of mozzarella or provolone with the Parmesan. For a thicker dip-style sauce, I reduce the milk slightly. I’ve also blended in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more texture and flavor—perfect for pasta!

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I need to reheat it, I use low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to bring it back to that smooth consistency. If it thickens too much in the fridge, I stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Related Recipes:

Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day or two in advance. It reheats well and keeps its flavor and texture if stored properly.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely. I’ve used Romano, Asiago, or even a little cream cheese when I’m out of Parmesan, and it still turns out delicious.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Not as written, since it uses all-purpose flour. But I’ve made it gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and had great results.

Can I freeze white pizza sauce?

Yes, I freeze it in portions using airtight containers. When I reheat, I stir it well and add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.

What can I serve with this sauce besides pizza?

It’s amazing on pasta, in a white lasagna, or as a dip for breadsticks and veggies. I even spread it in sandwiches and wraps when I want something rich and flavorful.

Conclusion

This white pizza sauce has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s comforting, creamy, and full of garlicky goodness that lifts any dish I pair it with. I love how easy it is to make, and once I tried it, I couldn’t go back to just using red sauce. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or pizza night with friends, this sauce always adds something special.

📖 Recipe: