Name: Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic, pressed or finely grated; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups half and half (or whole milk), more if needed; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1/8 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 20 reviews

If you have been searching for that perfect sauce to elevate your homemade pizza or add a creamy twist to your breadsticks, look no further. This Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine a luscious blend of sharp parmesan and velvety half and half coming together in a sauce so smooth and flavorful that every bite sings with cheesy goodness. It’s simple to whip up yet rich enough to serve as the star of the show or a decadent complement to your favorite pizza toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass measuring cup filled with white milk is centered on a light wood surface, surrounded by small transparent glass bowls holding pale yellow butter cubes and white flour, along with a tiny wooden bowl containing salt and black pepper. To the right, there is a metal measuring cup filled with shredded pale yellow cheese, and two whole white garlic cloves lie next to it. The surface is changed to white marbled texture, and the image is taken from above, showing all ingredients clearly spaced out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, bringing its own unique texture, flavor, and aroma to create a smooth, irresistible sauce. These ingredients are basic pantry staples, making it easy to prepare this sauce anytime you want a creamy boost to your meals.

2 tablespoons butter: The base that melts everything together while adding rich flavor and silkiness.
1 teaspoon garlic, pressed or finely grated: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant kick that complements the cheese perfectly.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency without any lumps.
1 1/2 cups half and half (or whole milk): Provides a luxurious creaminess that’s lighter than cream but richer than milk.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle depth and a touch of sweetness to balance the sharpness of the parmesan.
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly, never overpowering.
1/8 teaspoon cracked black pepper: Offers a mild spice that gently wakes up your taste buds.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: The star ingredient that delivers that unmistakable nutty, salty, and sharp flavor.

How to Make Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic

Begin by heating the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until melted. Add the freshly pressed garlic and cook just for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases all that wonderful garlicky aroma that will carry through your sauce, ensuring it has a lively yet balanced flavor.

Step 2: Whisk in the Flour to Create a Roux

Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the buttery garlic mixture. Whisk vigorously to combine and form a roux—a smooth paste that will give your sauce its creamy body. Cooking the flour briefly helps remove any raw taste and thickens the sauce as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Half and Half and Seasonings

Slowly pour in the half and half while whisking nonstop to keep the sauce silky smooth. Add the onion powder, Kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors and build a rounded taste profile for the sauce.

Step 4: Melt the Parmesan and Thicken the Sauce

Continue to cook and whisk the sauce for about 5 minutes. This allows the parmesan cheese to melt fully and for the mixture to thicken slightly. Keep an eye on the consistency; if it gets too thick, just whisk in a splash more half and half until it’s perfectly creamy. Once ready, remove from heat—your Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe is complete!

How to Serve Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe

A round pizza with a thick, golden brown crust that looks soft and slightly puffy. The topping is a layer of melted, creamy white cheese with small browned spots, covering the whole pizza evenly. One slice is being pulled away from the rest, showing stretchy cheese between the slice and the remaining pizza. The pizza is placed on a dark baking surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few torn basil leaves add a pop of color and fresh brightness that contrasts beautifully with the cheese’s rich depth. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil brings a silky finish.

Side Dishes

This sauce is fantastic beyond pizza. Use it as a dip alongside garlic bread, crispy breadsticks, or fresh vegetable crudités. It pairs wonderfully with roasted or sautéed mushrooms, making any simple side dish feel indulgent and elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond a simple pizza spread—swirl this sauce on flatbreads topped with spinach and grilled chicken, or drizzle over baked potatoes for a comforting meal. You can even brush it inside a calzone for a creamy surprise. The versatility of this Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe invites endless culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its creamy texture well but give it a good stir before reheating as it may thicken slightly.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop to preserve its smooth consistency.

Reheating

Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating or the sauce from sticking to the pan. Adding a splash of milk or half and half can help restore that lovely creamy texture during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! While parmesan is the classic choice for its sharp, nutty flavor, you can experiment with asiago or pecorino romano for a similar tangy richness. Just keep in mind the saltiness of the cheese to avoid over-seasoning.

Is half and half necessary, or can I substitute something else?

Half and half strikes the perfect balance between creaminess and lightness. If you don’t have it, whole milk works, though the sauce may be a touch less rich. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened cashew milk with a small amount of vegan butter.

Why does my sauce sometimes get lumpy?

Lumps usually happen when flour isn’t whisked in properly or when you add milk too quickly. Be sure to whisk constantly when adding the half and half and cook the roux long enough to smooth out the flour before adding liquids.

Can this sauce be used for other dishes besides pizza?

Definitely! This creamy sauce is fantastic on pasta, drizzled over vegetables, or as a dip for appetizers. It’s a versatile base that elevates many dishes with its rich, cheesy flavor.

How long does it take to make this Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe?

From start to finish, it only takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy way to add an impressive gourmet touch to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

If you want to discover the ultimate secret to rich, cheesy, and smooth pizza sauce, this Creamy White Parmesan Pizza Sauce Recipe is a must-try. Its simplicity combined with bold flavors will quickly make it a staple in your kitchen. Give it a whirl and watch your homemade pizzas and snacks transform into something spectacularly delicious!