Express White Pizza Sauce In A Snap (10-Minute Recipe)

Many pizza enthusiasts have traveled far and wide, from Italy’s bustling streets to the Middle East’s aromatic markets, searching for the perfect slice. I, too, embarked on such a journey. 

On a recent trip to Europe, while savoring pizzas in various bistros, I stumbled upon a lesser-known delight: White Pizza Sauce.

Unlike its red counterpart, this sauce stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor profile. 

However, a common problem many face is the monotony of traditional red sauce on their pies. In a friend’s home in Rome, I was introduced to the creamy alternative my kids now constantly request.

If you’ve got a palate seeking change, trying this sauce is the action you need. 

The solution? A refreshing twist to your pizza adds a European touch to your kitchen. Embrace the change and give your pizza the creamy love it deserves.

What Is White Pizza Sauce?

White pizza sauce is a creamy, flavorful alternative to the commonly used red tomato sauce on pizzas. It’s made primarily from milk, butter, garlic, and sometimes cheeses such as Parmesan or mozzarella. It is excellent for various toppings as a base and generally offers a milder, richer taste. 

You’ll want to choose this sauce if you crave a different twist on your traditional pizza. I recommend pairing it with toppings like spinach, chicken, or mushrooms for a harmonious blend of flavors.

History Of White Pizza Sauce 

White pizza sauce, often linked to European culinary traditions, is rooted in Italy’s rich and varied cuisine. While pinning down a single inventor is hard, the sauce is commonly associated with “Pizza Bianca.” 

This type of pizza, devoid of tomato sauce, is one of the ancient forms of pizza enjoyed in Rome and parts of Italy. In these regions, chefs, seeking variety, began using creamy bases like olive oil, garlic, and later more elaborate versions with dairy. 

If you appreciate diverse pizza flavors, understanding this sauce’s origins helps you appreciate its rich lineage.

Interesting Facts About White Pizza Sauce

• White pizza sauce is one of the preferred choices for lactose-tolerant individuals since it’s often made with dairy ingredients.
• You might find that many Italian regions have their unique twist on the sauce, using local cheeses or herbs.
• In some places, you’ll want to ask for “Pizza Bianca” if you want pizza with a creamy white base.
• The sauce is excellent as a base for “white pizzas,” which generally omits the traditional red sauce.
• White pizza sauce commonly contains less acidity than tomato-based sauces, making it better if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Incorporating garlic in the sauce adds flavor and provides health benefits, as garlic is known to have medicinal properties.

What Are The Regional Adaptations Of This Sauce?

White pizza sauce has seen variations as it’s traveled across regions. In Italy, especially Rome, the sauce remains simple with olive oil and garlic, often called “Pizza Bianca.” 

As you move to regions like Tuscany, you might find hints of local herbs or cheeses added. In the Middle East, adaptations might include yogurt or tahini for a tangier profile. 

Suppose you’ve got a taste for American versions. In that case, they generally lean towards a richer blend, using heavy cream or various cheeses. It’s fascinating how one sauce can undergo so many transformations. 

What Will Make You Love This White Pizza Sauce? 

White pizza sauce is a delightful divergence from the commonly used tomato base. Its creamy consistency can transform a regular pizza into a gastronomic treat.

If you’ve got a penchant for rich flavors, this sauce provides a luscious foundation, complementing a variety of toppings. 

For cheese enthusiasts, the sauce often blends multiple cheeses, enhancing the overall cheesy goodness of your pizza.

It pairs seamlessly with toppings like spinach, grilled chicken, and mushrooms. Moreover, the subtle hints of garlic in the sauce give it an aromatic lift. 

This sauce is necessary for those seeking variety in their pizza game. After one bite, you’ll want to make it a regular choice. It’s a culinary experience that is great to share and relish.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter	2 tbsp
Olive oil	1 tbsp.
Finely chopped onion	1/4 cup
Large clove garlic (minced)	1
All-purpose flour	3 tbsp
Milk	1 cup (or more as needed)
Grated Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Minced fresh basil	2 tbsp
Chopped fresh oregano (optional)	1/2 tsp.
Salt	1/4 tsp.
Ground black pepper	1/8 tsp.

Ingredient Tips 

• Butter: Use unsalted butter; it helps you control the salt content better.
• Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Onion: Opt for yellow onions, which are commonly sweeter and add a soft texture.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers a more robust flavor than pre-packaged.
• All-Purpose Flour: Ensure it’s well-sifted to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Milk: Whole milk provides a creamier consistency. If you’ve got lactose issues, try using lactose-free milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for the best taste and texture.
• Basil & Oregano: Fresh herbs elevate the sauce’s flavor, but dried versions work in a pinch.
• Salt & Pepper: Adjust these seasonings gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the desired flavor.

What Are The Variations Of White Pizza Sauce Recipe?

• Vegan Version: Replace regular milk with almond or cashew milk and use vegan cheese. Olive oil can be a substitute for butter.
• Alfredo-inspired: Add Parmesan and incorporate cream cheese for a richer, Alfredo-like texture.
• Herb-heavy: If you’ve got a love for herbs, increase basil, add rosemary, or incorporate fresh thyme for an aromatic punch.
• Spicy Kick: Introduce red chili flakes or minced jalapeños for a spicier touch.
• Roasted Garlic: Instead of fresh garlic, use roasted garlic for a deeper, mellow flavor.
• Pesto Fusion: Blend in some pesto for a basil-heavy, nutty twist.

Recipe Directions

• In a small saucepan, combine olive oil and butter. Place the pan over moderate heat until the butter has melted.
• Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pan. Cook and stir for about 1 minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn but that both garlic and onion become softened and release a tangy aroma.
• Gradually sprinkle the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for 2-3 minutes. The goal is to allow the flour to brown slightly, ensuring the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is lumped-free.
• Incorporate the ground black pepper, salt, optional oregano, minced basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and milk into the onion and flour mixture.
• Continue to cook for approximately 5 minutes, whisking constantly. This ensures the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
• Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Scaling The Recipe

• Proportional Scaling: Ensure all ingredients are increased or decreased proportionally. If you’re doubling the recipe, double every ingredient.
• Taste As You Go: Especially when scaling up, flavors might need adjustment. It’s better if you taste and modify accordingly.
• Cooking Time: While prep time remains constant, cooking time might vary slightly, especially with larger quantities. Monitor consistency.
• Consistency: If you’ve got a too thick sauce after scaling up, gradually add milk. If it is too thin, a roux (butter and flour mixture) can help thicken it.
• Equipment: Ensure your cooking equipment can accommodate the scaled quantity, especially when scaling up.

Can This Sauce Be Used As A Marinade, Dipping Sauce, Or Dressing For Salads?

• Marinade: The creamy base, garlic, and herbs work well for marinating chicken or fish. It adds moisture and infuses flavors, preparing the protein for grilling or baking.
• Dipping Sauce: It’s a great to-go option for breadsticks, fried appetizers, or veggies. The rich and tangy flavor complements many side dishes.
• Salad Dressing: While not commonly used this way, you might try thinning the sauce with a bit of olive oil or milk. Mix it into your favorite salad for a creamy twist.

What Are The Best Dishes To Accompany White Pizza Sauce?

• Gourmet Pizzas: Beyond the traditional, try toppings like grilled chicken, spinach, and artichokes. They harmonize well with the sauce’s richness.
• Pasta Dishes: Think fettuccine or penne. The sauce is a lighter version of Alfredo, complementing stuffed and plain pasta.
• Bread: Garlic bread or freshly baked focaccia becomes even more delightful when dipped into this sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants gain an added flavor when drizzled with or dipped into this sauce.
• Grilled Meats: Chicken breasts or fish filets, when grilled, pair wonderfully with a side of this sauce.

What Are Some Classic Dishes That Feature White Pizza Sauce?

• White Pizza (Pizza Bianca): Originating from Italy, this pizza omits the traditional red sauce in favor of a white sauce, often topped with mozzarella, garlic, and sometimes veggies or chicken.
• Chicken Alfredo Pizza: A fusion of Alfredo pasta and pizza, this dish features grilled chicken, cheese, and often spinach or broccoli.
• Spinach and Artichoke Pizza: A spin on the famous dip, this pizza combines spinach, artichokes, and sometimes sun-dried tomatoes with creamy sauce.
• Calzone: Folded pizzas that encase white sauce, cheese, and various fillings, offering a creamy surprise with each bite.
• Stromboli: Rolled pizzas with white sauce, meats, and cheeses, creating a savory swirl inside.

What Are The Key Flavor Profiles And Taste Sensations That White Pizza Sauce Offers?

• Creaminess: The foundational texture, usually derived from milk, butter, or cheese, offers a smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
• Savory: Ingredients like Parmesan cheese and salt provide a delectable savory note.
• Garlicky: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with a sharp, aromatic punch, a signature undertone in many recipes.
• Herbaceous: Fresh herbs like basil and oregano introduce a fragrant, green flavor.
• Mild Sweetness: Onions, when sautéed, impart a subtle sweet note, balancing the sauce’s overall profile.
• Slight Heat: Ground black pepper or optional chili flakes can add a gentle kick.

Can This Sauce Be Stored And Preserved For Future Use? What Is Its Shelf Life?

• Refrigeration: After cooking, let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It generally lasts for up to 5-7 days.
• Freezing: For more extended storage, you might consider freezing the sauce. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Properly stored, it can last up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk if needed to regain consistency.
• Shelf Life: Freshly made and kept at room temperature, the sauce should be used within a few hours to ensure safety and taste.

What Are The Substitutes For White Pizza Sauce? 

• Alfredo Sauce: Made with butter, garlic, Parmesan, and cream, it offers a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
• Bechamel Sauce: A classic French sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, it serves as a mild and creamy base.
• Ricotta Cheese Blend: Mix ricotta with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a thick, tangy base.
• Pesto: A green sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, it offers a fresh, herbaceous alternative.
• Olive Oil and Garlic: A simple mix of olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs can be a light and aromatic substitute.
• Hummus: This Middle Eastern chickpea spread can be an unconventional but flavorful base, especially for veggie toppings.

How To Adjust The Consistency Of The Sauce?

• Too Thick: Add milk or cream gradually, whisking continuously until you reach the desired consistency. If you’ve got a dairy concern, broth or water can also work.
• Too Thin: Simmer the sauce on low heat to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, prepare a small roux by whisking equal parts of melted butter and flour in a separate pan, then blend it into the sauce.
• Cheese: Adding more grated cheese can also intensify the sauce’s flavor.
• Flour: If it’s just slightly runny, a little sprinkle of flour, while whisking constantly can help.
• Temperature: Keep in mind the sauce thickens as it cools. So, if you’re unsure, let it cool a bit to check the final consistency.

Should We Serve The Sauce Cold Or Warm?

• For Pizza: Warm the sauce. Spreading is easier, ensuring a uniform cooking process when the pizza bakes.
• Dipping Sauce: Both cold and warm work. The cold sauce can contrast refreshingly with hot appetizers like breadsticks or fried foods. Warm sauce can complement dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
• Salad Dressing: Generally, cold or room temperature is best. It doesn’t wilt the greens and maintains the salad’s crispness.
• Pasta: Warm sauce ensures the pasta heats through and absorbs the flavors more effectively.

Nutritional Values

White pizza sauce is a source of calcium and fats due to its dairy content, and it also provides a hint of protein from the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, the inclusion of garlic and herbs offers minor vitamins and minerals.

What Are The Total Calories In White Pizza Sauce?

The total calories in white pizza sauce largely depend on the specific ingredients and quantities used. For instance, the type of milk (whole, skim, or plant-based), the amount of butter, and the cheese type can all influence the caloric content. A serving of white pizza sauce might typically range between 70 to 150 calories. 

Dietary Restrictions Of The White Pizza Sauce

• Dairy: It contains milk and cheese, which aren’t suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those with dairy allergies.
• Gluten: The all-purpose flour in the recipe can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan: Traditional recipes contain dairy, making it unsuitable for vegans.
• Low-Fat Diets: The butter, olive oil, and cheese contribute fats.
• Low-Sodium Diets: Salt and cheeses might make it high in sodium.
• Garlic & Onion Allergies: These common allergens are primary ingredients.
• Kosher or Halal: Ensure ingredients comply with religious dietary laws, especially the cheese.

Nutrition Table

What Are The Common Mistakes While Making This Sauce?

• Overheating: Cooking the sauce on high heat can lead to the milk curdling or the sauce burning.
• Not Constantly Whisking: This can result in lumps or the flour not blending smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Overseasoning: Adding too much salt or herbs initially can overpower the sauce. It’s better if you add gradually and taste as you go.
• Not Cooking Flour Enough: The sauce can taste like raw flour if you don’t adequately cook the roux (butter and flour mixture).
• Using Low-Fat Ingredients: While you might aim for a healthier version, low-fat milk or cheese can affect the sauce’s richness and consistency.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Pre-packaged minced garlic or dried herbs can significantly reduce the sauce’s flavor depth.
• Not Adjusting Consistency: A sauce that’s too thick or thin can affect your dish’s outcome. Ensure you adjust using milk or a roux as necessary.

What Are Some Creative Uses Of Leftover Sauce? 

• Pasta Cream Sauce: Mix with cooked pasta, throw in some veggies or protein, and have a creamy dish.
• Soup Base: Blend the sauce into vegetable soups for added creaminess.
• Baked Casseroles: Layer it in lasagnas or other baked dishes for added richness.
• Sandwich Spread: Use a flavorful base on bread for sandwiches or wraps.
• Mashed Potatoes: Mix into your mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
• Dip for Veggies: Serve alongside raw or grilled veggies.
• Topping for Baked Proteins: Drizzle or spread over baked chicken or fish for a creamy finish.

Special Tools & Equipment Needed

• Whisk: Essential for achieving a lump-free consistency and blending ingredients seamlessly.
• Saucepan: Preferably heavy-bottomed to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring, especially when the sauce thickens.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise ingredient quantities, ensuring balanced flavors.
• Garlic Press: Helps achieve finely minced garlic, which blends better into the sauce.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Useful if you need to remove any lumps or to achieve a super-smooth consistency.
• Airtight Containers: For storing leftover sauce in the fridge or freezer.
• Heat-resistant Silicone Spatula: To scrape out every bit of sauce from the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese In The Sauce?

Absolutely. While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even cream cheese for varied flavors and textures.

How Can I Make The Sauce Gluten-Free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or use cornstarch. Ensure you adjust the quantities as needed since different thickeners have varied potencies.

What Can I Do If My Sauce Turns Out Too Garlicky?

If the garlic flavor is overpowering, add more milk or cream to dilute it. Alternatively, increasing other ingredients proportionally can help balance the flavors.

Is It Possible To Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time For A Party Or Gathering?

Yes, white pizza sauce can be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before serving, gently reheat on the stove, stirring continuously.

Can This Sauce Be Frozen For Future Use?

Indeed, to freeze, pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and using.