Name: White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup Butter; 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 1 cup Whole milk (room temperature); 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper; 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 dough Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for brushing crust); 1.5 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded; 0.5 cup Ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 1 teaspoon Dried basil; Fresh thyme (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 56 reviews

If you are craving a pizza that bursts with creamy, garlicky goodness and fresh herbal notes, then you must try this White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe. This pizza takes a delightful twist from the traditional tomato sauce by using a luscious white sauce base that blends melted butter, garlic, creamy ricotta, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an irresistible flavor combination. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich creaminess and vibrant freshness, making it a comforting yet elegant meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several clear glass bowls and dishes arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. The items include four fresh brown mushrooms grouped together at the bottom left, next to a bowl of light yellow powder. Above it is a small bowl with two yellow butter squares, and a small white bowl filled with green dried herbs. In the center, there is a bowl of white curd cheese and another bowl with white soft cheese topped with fresh thyme. To the right, there is a bowl of clear yellow oil, a whole garlic bulb with separated cloves, another bowl with green dried herbs, and a large bowl of white flour. At the bottom right, there is a bowl of cooked dark green spinach. The overall setup has a clean and fresh look with natural colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to crafting that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. Every component contributes to the velvety sauce, the chewy crust, or the fresh, aromatic finish that makes this dish shine.

¼ cup Butter: The rich foundation to create a smooth and flaky white sauce.

3 tablespoons All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the ideal creamy consistency without lumps.
1 cup Whole milk (room temperature): Adds a silky smooth texture and keeps the sauce luscious.
3 cloves Garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant, savory depth that truly wakes up the white sauce.

½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
¼ teaspoon Black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and subtle bite.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Infuses the sauce with a nutty, sharp undertone.
1 Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade): The crispy yet chewy canvas for all your toppings.

1½ cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully with a mild, gooey richness on top.
½ cup Ricotta cheese: Offers light creaminess and delicate texture in dollops across the pizza.
2 tablespoons Olive oil: Used to brush the crust for a golden, crisp edge.

1 teaspoon Dried oregano: A classic herb flavor that complements the cheeses perfectly.
1 teaspoon Dried basil: Adds a fresh and slightly sweet herbal note.
Fresh thyme: Garnishes the pizza with bright, fragrant bursts that lift every bite.

How to Make White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Pizza Dough Base

Start by baking your pizza dough on a prepared pizza stone or baking sheet. This initial bake creates a sturdy crust that will hold the creamy sauce without getting soggy. While the dough is baking, you can start working on that luscious white sauce that is the star of this recipe.

Step 2: Make the White Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly add in the milk, whisking constantly to create a silky smooth sauce. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. This garlicky white sauce will coat the pizza beautifully, providing a creamy, flavorful base that enhances all the toppings.

Step 3: Prep and Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has taken its first trip through the oven and is slightly firm, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to your desired thickness. This step ensures a perfectly even crust that crisps up while baking. Transfer the rolled dough back to your baking surface in preparation for assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Brush the edges of your prepared dough with olive oil to help it brown beautifully. Then, spread a generous layer of your freshly made white sauce all over the pizza base. Distribute the shredded mozzarella evenly on top, followed by dollops of creamy ricotta. Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the cheese to infuse that aromatic herby goodness. Don’t forget the fresh thyme, adding it just before baking or as a final garnish for maximum fragrance.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll want the crust edges to turn a beautiful golden brown while the cheeses bubble and meld together in a gooey, irresistible layer. Once baked, allow the pizza to rest for around five minutes to let the flavors settle before slicing and serving.

How to Serve White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

A pizza with a thick, golden brown crust that is slightly puffed and crispy on the edges forms the base layer. On top, there is a creamy white layer of melted cheese that looks smooth and soft with some bubbling and light browning. Dollops of white, fluffy cheese are spread evenly across the top, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, adding small bursts of color. A glossy drizzle of yellow olive oil reflects light, giving the pizza a fresh look. One slice is pulled slightly away, showing the pizza is soft inside with a stretch of melted cheese. The pizza rests on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface, with a wooden bowl of green herbs visible at the top left and a striped cloth napkin at the bottom right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs brighten the finished pizza with their light citrusy aroma, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right after baking adds a silky shine and enhances richness. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper can elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted vegetables to complement its creamy richness. A light, refreshing side balances the indulgent cheese and sauce so the meal feels both satisfying and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices arranged on a rustic wooden board, garnished with extra fresh herbs around the edges. For parties, consider individual mini pizzas made the same way or offer an assortment of fresh herb sprigs in small bowls for guests to customize their slices themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe securely in plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or freezer bags. Frozen pizza slices can last up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat pizza slices in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes to recreate that crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy and loses the original delightful texture of the white sauce.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk for the white sauce?

While whole milk gives the best creamy texture and richness, you can use low-fat milk if you prefer. The sauce may be slightly thinner but will still deliver delicious garlicky flavor.

Is homemade pizza dough better than store-bought?

Homemade dough offers a personalized touch and fresher flavor, but store-bought dough is a fantastic shortcut that works wonderfully, especially if you’re short on time. Both yield great results in this recipe.

Can I add other toppings to this white sauce pizza?

Absolutely! Vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions, or even cooked chicken or prosciutto, pair beautifully with the creamy white sauce and cheeses, adding layers of flavor and texture.

How do I know when the pizza is done baking?

The crust should be golden brown around the edges, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If you see these signs, your pizza is ready to come out of the oven.

Can this white sauce be used for other dishes?

Definitely! This garlicky white sauce is versatile enough to be a base for pasta dishes, casseroles, or even a dipping sauce, so keep it handy for many recipes beyond pizza.

Final Thoughts

This White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is a beautiful way to elevate your pizza game with a creamy, herbaceous twist. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor that feels both luxurious and comforting. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this pizza with loved ones as much as I do!

White Sauce Pizza with Garlic, Ricotta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need