The aroma wafting through my kitchen is pure bliss—the kind that makes you pause and take a deep breath, just soaking it all in. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss. This comforting twist on traditional pizza showcases a rich garlic béchamel that will make you forget all about tomato sauce. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing friends at casual gatherings. With melty mozzarella, savory parmesan, and a hint of ricotta, this pizza brings a gourmet experience right to your dinner table. Want to learn how to craft this creamy masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose White Sauce Pizza?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich garlic béchamel gives each bite a delicious twist that you won’t forget.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer vegetarian toppings or want to add meat, this pizza adapts beautifully to your cravings.
Comfort Food Elevated: Melty mozzarella and silky ricotta create a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug.
Impress Your Guests: Serve this gourmet creation, and watch as your friends rave about your culinary skills. Pair it with a fresh arugula salad for an exquisite meal! If you love unique pizzas, don’t miss checking out my Matcha White Chocolate Cookies for dessert!
White Sauce Pizza Ingredients
For the Garlic Béchamel
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce. Substitution: Unsalted butter works if you adjust salt content.
- Garlic – Infuses an aromatic flavor into the béchamel sauce. Use fresh garlic for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce to a perfect consistency. No direct substitutions.
- Whole Milk – Provides a creamy base for the béchamel sauce. Substitution: Use non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors beautifully. Use sea salt or table salt if needed.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth to the sauce. Use white pepper if preferred for a milder flavor.
For the Pizza
- Artisan Pizza Dough – The foundation of a great pizza. Substitution: Store-bought dough can save time.
- Shredded Mozzarella – Offers that gooey melt that is simply irresistible. Blend with other cheeses for variations.
- Shredded Parmesan – Brings a savory depth of flavor; adds richness. Can replace with Pecorino Romano for a different taste.
- Ricotta – Provides a creamy, dreamy texture in every bite. Substitution: Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be used.
For the Salad
- Olive Oil – Gives a nice shine and fruity flavor to the salad. Use flavored olive oil for extra taste.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with arugula. Substitution: Red wine or apple cider vinegar can work.
- Arugula – Introduces a fresh, peppery bite that complements the creaminess. Substitution: Spinach or kale can be used.
- Red Chile Flakes – A sprinkle adds a little heat for a spicy kick. Omit if not preferred or substitute with black pepper.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating an unforgettable white sauce pizza that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
Step 1: Make the Garlic Béchamel
Start by melting 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Once melted, add 2 smashed cloves of garlic, cooking until fragrant and golden, approximately 2 minutes. Next, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously until the mixture bubbles, forming a roux. Gradually pour in 1 ½ cups of whole milk, whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
With your béchamel ready, preheat your oven to a toasty 500°F (260°C). Place a pizza steel or stone inside the oven during preheating for about 45 minutes. This will give you that crispy bottom crust every pizza lover dreams of. A hot surface ensures that your white sauce pizza will bake evenly while creating a beautifully crispy crust.
Step 3: Prepare Pizza Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your artisan pizza dough into a perfect 12-inch circle. To achieve this, gently stretch the dough using your fingertips, allowing it to relax if it starts to retract. Once shaped, carefully transfer the dough to a floured pizza peel. This step is essential for easy transfer to the hot steel or stone later on without sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
With your dough perfectly formed, it’s time to bring the white sauce pizza together. Spread a generous layer of your creamy garlic béchamel over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan over the sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta distributed evenly for creaminess. This combination promises a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Slide your assembled white sauce pizza carefully onto the preheated pizza steel or stone in the oven. Bake for about 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it as the cheese begins to melt beautifully. To achieve a golden finish, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-4 minutes. Watch closely, as the broiler can quickly turn that gooey cheese to burnt if left unattended.
Step 6: Prepare the Arugula Salad
While the pizza bakes, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl to create a refreshing salad dressing. Add 2 cups of fresh arugula to the bowl and toss gently until the greens are evenly coated. This fresh salad will complement the richness of your white sauce pizza perfectly.
Step 7: Serve
Once the pizza has reached a beautiful golden-brown hue and the cheese is bubbling, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly for about 2 minutes to avoid burning your mouth. Garnish with the arugula salad right on top, slice into wedges, and enjoy your irresistible white sauce pizza with creamy garlic bliss that is sure to impress!
Storage Tips for White Sauce Pizza
Fridge: Store leftover white sauce pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of pizza wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. This keeps the flavors intact while allowing for easy reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen pizza directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the crust and the creaminess of the béchamel.
Serving Suggestions: For the best experience, serve reheated pizza fresh out of the oven alongside a fresh arugula salad to complement the rich, creamy flavors.
What to Serve with White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this creamy, gourmet pizza with delightful sides that enhance each delicious bite.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This classic companion adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for scooping up any leftover béchamel sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pizza and adds vibrant color to your meal.
- Hummus and Veggie Platter: Crunchy vegetables paired with creamy hummus provide an array of colors and textures, lightening up the overall meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the dining experience, cutting through the richness of the creamy garlic sauce effortlessly.
- Pesto Drizzle: Drizzling freshly made pesto over the arugula not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful green contrast to your pizza.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances the pizza’s creamy sweetness, making them a flavorful addition that’s sure to please.
- Artisan Bread: A warm, crusty bread can be dipped into the extra garlic béchamel, allowing you to savor every last bite of this delightful meal.
- Garlicky Spinach: Sautéed with olive oil and garlic, this dish adds a nutritious touch, providing a lovely subtle flavor that enhances the pizza.
- Lemon Sorbet: Finish your dinner on a light note with a refreshing sorbet, cleansing your palate while echoing the zesty notes of your salad.
These pairings create a well-rounded menu to make your white sauce pizza night an unforgettable experience!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious White Sauce Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the garlic béchamel sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container—this will maintain its creamy texture and flavor. The pizza dough can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just let it come to room temperature before stretching. When ready to enjoy, simply assemble your pizza with the prepped béchamel, cheese, and toppings, then bake as directed. You’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time, just as delicious as when freshly made!
White Sauce Pizza Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your white sauce pizza and tailor it to suit your tastes!
Vegetarian Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra veggies and flavor. This not only boosts nutrients but enhances the overall taste profile, making it a fulfilling dish.
Meat Lover’s: Incorporate crispy bacon or spicy sausage to satisfy meat cravings. The savory elements create an irresistible combination, truly transforming your pizza into a hearty feast.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheese substitutes to accommodate dairy allergies or preferences. This option still delivers creamy goodness, allowing everyone to partake without worry.
Gluten-Free: Try a gluten-free pizza crust instead of traditional dough. The taste and texture can still shine through, letting those on a gluten restriction enjoy a delicious meal.
Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano over the top before baking for aromatic flavor. This simple addition elevates your pizza, giving it a delightful garden-fresh essence.
Savory & Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or drizzle with hot honey after baking for a sweet and spicy contrast. This layer of heat can take each bite to another level of enjoyment.
Nutty Crust: Fold in finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, into your dough for an unexpected flavor and delightful crunch. This can provide an intriguing texture that surprises and delights!
Pesto Drizzle: Finish with a swirl of pesto before serving for a vibrant and flavorful touch. The herbaceous zing pairs wonderfully with the creamy béchamel, giving your pizza an elevated experience.
If you love indulging in unique flavors, pair this white sauce pizza with my Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles for a sweet treat afterwards!
Expert Tips for White Sauce Pizza
Fresh Garlic Must: Remember to use fresh garlic in the béchamel sauce for the best flavor. Overcooking the garlic can lead to a bitter taste, so watch closely!
Dough Stretching: If your pizza dough keeps retracting, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten. This makes it easier to stretch into the perfect 12-inch circle.
Keep an Eye on the Broiler: When you switch to broiling for that golden top, stay close—broiling can go from perfectly browned to burnt in seconds.
Crisp Bottom Crust: Preheat your pizza steel or stone thoroughly for crispy results. If the surface isn’t hot enough, the crust may come out soft or soggy.
Arugula Freshness: Toss the arugula with the dressing just before serving. This keeps the leaves from wilting and ensures a crisp and vibrant salad alongside your white sauce pizza.
White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss Recipe FAQs
What type of garlic should I use for the béchamel?
Absolutely, using fresh garlic is key for the best flavor in your béchamel sauce. Avoid pre-minced or jarred garlic as they lack the aromatic punch that fresh cloves provide. Simply smash the cloves before adding them to your butter; this way, you infuse the sauce with a delightful garlic aroma as it cooks!
How should I store leftover pizza?
After enjoying your delicious white sauce pizza, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s covered well to maintain that creamy texture and avoid drying out. If you freeze it, wrap slices in plastic wrap followed by foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze white sauce pizza?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! To do so, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date so you remember to enjoy your creamy deliciousness within 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen slices for about 15-20 minutes.
I have leftovers, how can I reheat them?
To reheat your white sauce pizza while keeping the crust crispy and the béchamel creamy, place it directly on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method ensures you’re enjoying a pizza that tastes almost as good as when it was freshly baked!
Creamy White Sauce Pizza That Will Change Your Dinnertime Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt salted butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add smashed garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour, stir continuously until the mixture bubbles.
- Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza steel or stone inside to preheat.
- Roll out pizza dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer to a floured pizza peel.
- Spread garlic béchamel over the dough, sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan, then dollop ricotta.
- Bake pizza on preheated steel or stone for about 5 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-4 minutes.
- Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt in a bowl. Add arugula and toss gently.
- Remove pizza from oven, cool for a couple of minutes, and garnish with arugula salad before slicing.