This Easy Herb White Pizza Sauce is a creamy delight topped with fresh herbs. It’s quick to whip up and adds a tasty twist to your pizza night!
I love spreading this sauce on my homemade crust and then piling on the cheese. It’s so simple, I usually have all the ingredients at hand—no fancy trips to the store needed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta gives a creamy texture and mild flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try tofu ricotta as a plant-based alternative, or use cream cheese for a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: This brings a sharp, salty flavor to the sauce. If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Mayonnaise: It adds creaminess and helps emulsify the sauce. You can replace it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use a light mayo or skip it altogether.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs. You can make your own with thyme, oregano, and basil. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also work here, though you’ll use more than dried.
How Do You Get the Right Consistency for Your Sauce?
Getting the perfect sauce consistency is important for a smooth spread. Start with the ricotta, which should be creamy. If your sauce feels too thick, gradually add water or milk, mixing well after each addition.
- Heat the saucepan with olive oil and garlic; then add the cheeses and mayo.
- Mix thoroughly while heating to ensure everything combines well. If it looks lumpy, don’t worry—just keep stirring.
- As you add liquid, do it one tablespoon at a time to avoid making it too runny. Aim for a spreadable yet thick texture.
Trust me, a well-blended sauce makes all the difference on your pizza!
Easy Herb White Pizza Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons water or milk (to loosen the sauce if necessary)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as chopped chives, thyme, or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking and mixing everything, then you’re ready to spread it on your pizza dough! It’s perfect for a quick and tasty pizza night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. This will create a nice base for your sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the saucepan. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown! We want it flavorful, not burnt.
3. Mix in the Cheeses:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Add the ricotta, Parmesan, and mayonnaise to the pan. Stir continuously to mix everything into a creamy sauce.
4. Season the Sauce:
Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the mix. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the sauce.
5. Adjust the Consistency:
If your sauce feels too thick, don’t worry! Just add 1-2 tablespoons of water or milk, one at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be spreadable but still thick enough to stay on the pizza.
6. Cool and Spread:
Once your sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Spread this delicious white herb sauce evenly over your pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings.
7. Garnish and Serve:
After baking your pizza, sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs on top for that extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your tasty creation!
This sauce pairs beautifully with toppings like sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions, and it brings a rich, flavorful base that enhances any white pizza creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Ricotta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cream cheese for a richer flavor or even a dairy-free tofu ricotta for a vegan option. Just blend it until smooth to maintain the creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it again, as it may thicken in the fridge!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge. It’s a great time-saver for pizza night, and the flavors will meld even more!
What Can I Use This Sauce On Besides Pizza?
This white herb sauce is versatile! You can use it as a base for pasta dishes, a spread for sandwiches, or even as a dip for veggies and breadsticks. Get creative!
