This creamy Herb White Pizza Sauce is full of flavor with garlic, herbs, and a hint of cheese. It spreads easily on pizza dough for a tasty twist!
You might find yourself licking the spoon when making this! I love making extra and using it for dipping breadsticks too—because who doesn’t love a good dip? 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the sauce, bringing creamy richness. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese can work too, just blend it until smooth for a similar texture.
Heavy Cream: This adds a luxurious creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute half and half or opt for plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: This gives the sauce a nice salty depth. Grana Padano or even nutritional yeast can substitute for a dairy-free option while still providing great flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with savory goodness. Fresh garlic is the best choice; however, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon instead.
Fresh Herbs: I like using parsley or chives for garnish because they add color and freshness. You could also use basil or even arugula for a peppery touch.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Smooth and Flavorful?
The texture and flavor of the sauce are key to its success. To achieve a smooth consistency, mix the ricotta, cream, and Parmesan thoroughly in a bowl until no lumps remain. Using a hand mixer can help if you’re in a hurry.
- Start with ricotta and cream in a medium bowl first, mixing until uniform.
- Add Parmesan and garlic to the mixture, and make sure to stir it all in well.
- For the spices, add them gradually, tasting as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Remember, sauté the garlic just until fragrant – you don’t want it to brown, as that can give off a bitter taste. Keep the heat to medium and stir constantly for about a minute.
How to Make Easy Herb White Pizza Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or chives)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy herb white pizza sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients and sautéing the garlic, and then it’s ready to use. This will really elevate your pizza!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Cheeses:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix them well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your delicious sauce!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant (but be careful not to let it brown!). Sautéing the garlic adds a lovely flavor to your sauce.
3. Combine Everything:
Add the sautéed garlic to your ricotta mixture. Next, stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the sauce is creamy.
4. Use Your Sauce:
Your herb white pizza sauce is now ready to use! Spread it evenly over your prepared pizza dough, allowing you to enjoy a creamy and flavorful base before adding your favorite toppings.
5. Bake Your Pizza:
Follow the baking instructions for your pizza dough, typically at a high temperature of 475°F (245°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust looks golden and the cheese is bubbly. Make your pizza dreams come true!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your pizza is out of the oven, don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the top for that extra pop of flavor. Slice it up and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with cottage cheese for a similar texture. For a stronger flavor, cream cheese or mascarpone works well too. Just be aware that this may adjust the creaminess of the sauce, so you might want to tweak the heavy cream accordingly.
How Can I Make This Sauce Thicker?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, try adding more grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of cream cheese. Another option is to simmer the mixture over low heat for a few minutes while stirring, which can help the sauce thicken up a bit before spreading it on the pizza.
Can I Prepare This Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! Make the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
What Should I Serve with My Pizza?
This herb white pizza sauce pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed veggies to balance its creaminess. A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette would be especially refreshing!
