If you’re a fan of creamy, garlicky goodness, this White Pizza with Garlic Pizza Sauce is the perfect recipe for you. With a rich homemade garlic sauce, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and a touch of fresh basil, this pizza is an elegant and delicious twist on the traditional pie. Let’s get started on crafting this gourmet masterpiece!
Ingredients
Garlic Pizza Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic, very finely chopped (or 3 teaspoons of jarred minced garlic)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Pizza:
- 1 pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 oz low moisture mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup Parmesan garlic sauce (from the recipe above)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chiffonade
Directions
Prepare the Garlic Pizza Sauce:
- Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s fully liquefied.
- Make the Roux:
- Whisk in the flour and continue whisking for about 2 minutes, making sure not to brown the mixture. This forms the base of your sauce and ensures it thickens properly.
- Add the Milk:
- Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes thick and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season the Sauce:
- Add sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic, whisking to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate the Parmesan:
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until just melted. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool before using. If preparing in advance, cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Prepare the Pizza:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450ºF (232ºC). A hot oven is key to achieving a crispy crust.
- Prepare the Crust:
- Roll out your pizza crust on a 12-14 inch pizza pan. Brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. This adds flavor and helps the crust become golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the garlic sauce evenly around the crust. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Top with grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pizza is out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil chiffonade for a burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips
- Perfecting the Sauce: When making the garlic sauce, be careful not to let the roux brown, as it can alter the flavor. Whisk continuously to maintain a smooth texture.
- Cheese Selection: Using low moisture mozzarella ensures your pizza doesn’t become too watery. Freshly grating the cheese helps it melt evenly.
- Basil Garnish: Adding fresh basil after baking retains its vibrant color and fresh flavor, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
Conclusion
This White Pizza with Garlic Pizza Sauce is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors, perfect for any pizza night. The homemade garlic sauce adds a gourmet touch, while the blend of cheeses and fresh basil creates a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and elevate your pizza game to a whole new level!
