This creamy herb white pizza sauce is a breeze to make and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients like garlic, cream, and fresh herbs, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is a creamy base for the sauce. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese works too—just blend it until smooth for a similar texture.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness. For a healthier option, you could use Greek yogurt. It’s tangy and adds creaminess without too many calories!
Parmesan Cheese: For a nuttier flavor, consider Pecorino Romano as a substitute. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a great flavor kick. If you prefer less potent garlic, using garlic powder is fine; about half a teaspoon should do.
Fresh Herbs: Using parsley or chives adds brightness. Feel free to experiment with any fresh herbs you love like basil or thyme!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky, as it cooks quickly and can burn easily. Here’s how to get it right:
- Always start with a medium heat. If it’s too hot, the garlic will brown too fast.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan only after the oil is heated. This enhances its flavor.
- Stir the garlic constantly for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately.
With these steps, you’ll get the perfect garlic flavor without the bitter taste of burnt garlic! Enjoy your sauce-making!
How to Make Easy Herb White Pizza Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll quickly mix the ingredients and sauté some garlic to create a flavorful sauce. Perfect for using right away or for later use in your pizza, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a fork or spatula to mix well until everything is nice and smooth. This is the creamy base of your sauce!
2. Add the Milk:
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring the cheese mixture. Keep mixing until all the milk is fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy. Look for a texture that’s thick but spreadable!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the sautéed garlic to your cheese mixture. Then, sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are nicely blended. Your sauce is almost ready!
5. Adjust the Flavor:
Give the sauce a taste. If you feel it needs more flavor, you can add a bit more salt or herbs according to your liking. This is your chance to make it perfect!
6. Use or Store the Sauce:
Now, you can spread this delicious white pizza sauce immediately on your prepared pizza crust! If you’re not using it right away, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. Bake Your Pizza:
When you’re ready to bake, follow your dough’s instructions, usually at a high temperature (around 475°F or 245°C). Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden, and the cheese is bubbling.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs on top just before serving for an extra pop of freshness and color. Enjoy your homemade white pizza with this easy herb sauce!
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor. For a stronger taste, try adding more Parmesan or substituting with a mix of mozzarella and feta. Just keep in mind this may alter the creaminess and flavor profile of your sauce.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Sauce?
Store any leftover white pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container or an ice cube tray for easy portioning. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce one day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a good stir and taste to see if you need to adjust any seasonings before spreading it on your pizza.
What Should I Serve with White Pizza?
White pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors. You can also serve it with a light dipping sauce like marinara or your favorite balsamic glaze for added flavor!
