Looking to take your homemade pizza to the next level? This creamy garlic sauce for pizza is a game-changer. Rich, smooth, and layered with savory garlic goodness, it’s the ideal base or drizzle for everything from flatbreads to cheesy stuffed crusts. Whether you’re building a white pizza masterpiece or simply searching for a bold dipping sauce, this garlic-packed, velvety blend of cream, herbs, and cheese will instantly elevate your dish.
Unlike traditional tomato sauces, this creamy garlic sauce for pizza delivers a luscious, dairy-forward flavor that pairs beautifully with toppings like spinach, grilled chicken, mushrooms, or even spicy jalapeños. It’s incredibly easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and comes together in under 20 minutes—perfect for a quick pizza night upgrade!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Velvety & Bold Flavor – The garlic-forward taste and creamy texture are irresistible.
- Quick to Make – Ready in under 20 minutes with just a few ingredients.
- Versatile Uses – Use as a base for pizza, dip for breadsticks, or drizzle on calzones.
- Beginner-Friendly – Simple instructions make this recipe easy for any skill level.
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional for a creamy garlic cilantro sauce)
- Extra grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Garlic for Rich Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. The garlic is the star of this creamy garlic sauce for pizza, so don’t rush this step!
2. Make the Roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step gives the sauce its smooth, thick consistency.
3. Add Milk Slowly
Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep the heat medium and stir until the mixture thickens—about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and onion powder. The cheese will melt and add a savory depth to your creamy garlic parmesan sauce base.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs (Optional)
Stir in chopped fresh cilantro if you’re making a creamy garlic cilantro sauce variation. Simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.
Expert Tips Section
Expert Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Simmer gently to prevent the sauce from curdling or becoming gritty.
- Add a splash of pasta water if reheating to loosen the texture without thinning flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t burn the garlic—keep the heat medium and stir often.
- Avoid adding cold milk all at once; warm it slightly for a smoother result.
- Don’t skip whisking—this prevents lumps and ensures a silky finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Let the sauce cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if it thickens too much.
Nutritional Info per Serving (2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Use this creamy garlic sauce for pizza as a base for white pizzas topped with grilled chicken, spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes. It’s also amazing as a dipping sauce for garlic knots, breadsticks, or even crispy potato wedges. Want a twist? Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or add red pepper flakes for heat.
Pair this creamy garlic sauce for pizza with hearty sides like a crisp salad or even some garlic-packed bread. For a flavor explosion, serve it alongside our Cowboy Cheesy Garlic Bread — the bold garlic and cheese combo complements the sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic sauce for pizza brings a luxurious, restaurant-style touch to your homemade pies with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cook, this versatile sauce is your new go-to for creamy, garlicky goodness. Give it a try and don’t forget to leave a comment or tag your creation online!
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Not by default due to the flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.
Can I freeze creamy garlic sauce?
It’s not ideal. The texture may separate. Fresh is best, but it will keep in the fridge for a few days.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, use ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, but choose unsweetened and neutral-flavored options like oat or soy milk for best results.
Creamy Garlic Sauce for Pizza
Ingredients
- – 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- – 4 cloves garlic minced
- – 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- – 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – ¼ tsp salt
- – ¼ tsp black pepper
- – ¼ tsp onion powder
- – 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro optional
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix until cheese is melted.
- For a cilantro twist, stir in chopped cilantro and simmer for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Notes
For extra creamy texture, use half-and-half. Optional ingredients include red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Recipe serving suggestions:
Serve over white pizza, use as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or drizzle on roasted vegetables.
Recipe expert tips:
– Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.
– Warm milk slightly before adding to avoid curdling.
– Whisk constantly to prevent lumps.
