Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss is a delightful dish that will elevate any meal. With its rich, creamy garlic sauce and a medley of cheeses, this pizza is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in. The standout quality of this recipe lies in its creamy texture and flavorful toppings, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: The homemade garlic béchamel sauce provides an unforgettable creamy base that sets this pizza apart.
- Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy this delicious pizza in no time.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your pizza with a variety of toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of arugula and fresh cheeses adds vibrant flavors and textures to each bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration, this recipe fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss, you’ll need the right tools on hand for the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pizza steel or stone
- Pizza peel
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pizza Steel or Stone: These tools ensure even heat distribution, leading to a perfectly crispy crust.
- Pizza Peel: A pizza peel allows you to easily transfer your pizza into and out of the oven without losing shape.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons Salted butter
- 1 clove Garlic
- ¼ cup All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Whole milk
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
For the Pizza Base
- 1 pound Artisan pizza dough
For the Toppings
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup Shredded parmesan
- ½ cup Ricotta
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups Arugula
- ¼ teaspoon Red chile flakes
How to Make Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add in the smashed garlic clove and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Whisk in the flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes as the mixture bubbles to create a smooth roux.
Step 3: Add Milk Gradually
Add milk gradually while whisking well after each addition. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and whisk continuously until thickened—about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C), placing the pizza steel or stone inside for 45 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Dough
Flour a pizza peel generously. Flatten the dough ball on a floured surface, forming a large disk with a thick border. Stretch it into a 12-inch circle and place it on the pizza peel.
Step 6: Assemble Your Pizza
Spread the garlic béchamel sauce on the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Step 7: Bake Your Pizza
Slide the prepared pizza onto the hot steel and bake for about 5 minutes. Broil for an additional 2-4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Prepare Arugula Salad
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt while your pizza bakes. Toss arugula in this mixture.
Step 9: Serve
Remove your pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with arugula salad, slice, serve hot with red chile flakes if desired. Repeat these steps to make another delicious pizza!
How to Serve Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
This Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your pizza experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the pizza.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crispy romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing balances the savory pizza beautifully.
Add Dipping Sauces
- Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can enhance the pizza’s flavor profile while adding a delectable dip option.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil over each slice for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their meal.
Serve with Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus spears provide a crunchy texture and fresh taste that pairs well with the creamy pizza.
- Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices brushed with olive oil offer a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the white sauce.
How to Perfect Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
To make your Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality cheeses like fresh mozzarella and aged parmesan for maximum flavor impact.
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 500°F before baking to achieve a crispy crust.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or mushrooms to personalize your pizza.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish your pizza with fresh basil or oregano after baking for an aromatic finish.
Best Side Dishes for Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
Complementing your Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread sticks are perfect for dipping into extra sauce or enjoying alongside your pizza.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light and tasty appetizer.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cream cheese and herbs create a delightful bite-sized treat.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
- Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of raw veggies served with hummus offers a crunchy contrast to the soft pizza.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter adds sweetness and freshness to your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making this Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss can be straightforward, but a few missteps can lead to disappointment.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk can cause the sauce to clump. Always use room temperature or warm milk for a smoother béchamel.
- Overcooking the garlic: Burning the garlic can lead to a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
- Neglecting to preheat: A hot oven is essential for crispy crust. Ensure your oven and pizza stone are thoroughly preheated before baking.
- Skipping the flour dusting: Not flouring your pizza peel can result in sticking. Generously dust with flour to help slide the pizza off easily.
- Overloading toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Stick to a few key ingredients for balance and texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may result in a softer crust.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the perfect white sauce for my pizza?
The secret lies in creating a smooth roux by whisking flour into melted butter before gradually adding milk. Stir continuously until thickened.
Can I customize my Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite veggies or proteins like cooked chicken or turkey for added flavor and nutrition.
What should I serve with my white sauce pizza?
Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the pizza.
How do I make the crust crispier?
Using a preheated pizza stone and ensuring your dough is not too thick will help achieve that desirable crispy crust.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible White Sauce Pizza with Creamy Garlic Bliss is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it with various toppings and enjoy it any time of day! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.