Description

If you love rich, creamy pizza without tomato sauce, this White Pizza with Garlic Pizza Sauce is a delicious choice. It pairs a smooth, garlicky white sauce with low-moisture mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan for a perfectly balanced, cheese-forward pie. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a gathering.

Introduction

White pizza skips the classic tomato base in favor of a creamy sauce, highlighting the flavors of garlic and cheese. This version uses a homemade garlic pizza sauce that’s thick, savory, and easy to make. The result is a tender crust topped with melted mozzarella, nutty Parmesan and bright basil—ideal for anyone who prefers a non-tomato pizza or wants a fresher alternative on pizza night.

Ingredients

Garlic Pizza Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped (or 3 tsp jarred minced garlic)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Pizza

• 1 homemade or store-bought pizza crust (12–14″)
• 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella, grated
• ½ cup prepared garlic pizza sauce
• ¼ cup Parmesan, grated
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chiffonade

Optional Substitutions

• Use plant-based butter and milk for a dairy-free variation (note: cheeses will need dairy-free alternatives).
• For gluten-free, choose a gluten-free crust and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch.

Instructions

Step 1 — Make the Garlic Pizza Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly without letting it brown.
3. Slowly add the milk while whisking until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Add the salt, pepper, and garlic; whisk to combine evenly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan and whisk until just melted. Remove from heat and let cool before spreading on the pizza.
6. Store any leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Step 2 — Assemble and Bake the Pizza

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll or stretch the pizza crust to fit a 12–14″ pan.
3. Brush the crust lightly with olive oil and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over it for extra herb flavor.
4. Spread about ½ cup of the garlic pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
5. Top with the grated mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chiffonade basil before serving.

Notes & Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking additives that can affect melting quality.
• Boost garlic flavor: Add an extra clove of fresh garlic to the sauce or dot the pizza with roasted garlic before baking.
• Keep the crust crisp: Blind-bake the crust for 3–4 minutes before adding sauce and toppings to avoid sogginess.

Cooking Tips for the Best White Pizza

• Equipment: A pizza stone helps produce a crisp bottom crust—preheat the stone with the oven for best results.
• Cheese choice: Low-moisture mozzarella melts cleaner and prevents excess water on the pie. Drain or pat cheese dry if it’s very moist.
• Flavor balance: A pinch of red pepper flakes before baking adds a subtle heat that complements the creamy garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this white pizza with a crisp green salad or simple garlic bread to balance the richness. A light, sparkling beverage like lemonade or a dry white wine complements the creamy sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables make a wonderful side for a fuller meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Calcium: 25% of daily value

Garlic adds flavor and can contribute immune-supporting compounds, while the cheeses supply protein and calcium.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to preserve crust crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust chewy or soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes—prepare the sauce up to 5 days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely. A quality store-bought crust saves time and works well—just make sure it fits your pan.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Choose a gluten-free crust and replace the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch. Adjust cook times as needed for the crust you select.

What other cheeses work well?

Try ricotta for dollops of creamy texture or fontina for extra melt and richness alongside mozzarella and Parmesan.

Related Recipes

• Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread — a hearty, comforting casserole
• Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix — an easy, savory appetizer

Conclusion

This White Pizza with Garlic Pizza Sauce is a comforting, easy-to-make alternative to traditional tomato-based pies. With a creamy garlic sauce, melted cheeses, and fresh basil, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to customize. Try different cheeses or toppings to make it your own—happy cooking!