Can I make this garlic sauce completely ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce actually improves after 24 hours in the refrigerator as the flavors meld. Make it up to 3 days ahead, store refrigerated in an airtight container, and bring to room temperature before using.

Why did my garlic turn blue/green in the sauce?

Don't worry—this is a harmless chemical reaction between garlic's sulfur compounds and acidic ingredients or certain metals. The sauce is still completely safe to eat, though you may prefer to make a fresh batch for aesthetic reasons

Is this garlic sauce suitable for vegans?

The traditional recipe isn't vegan due to butter and optional Parmesan. However, simply substitute plant-based butter and omit the cheese (or use nutritional yeast) for a delicious vegan alternative that sacrifices none of the flavor

How spicy is this sauce with the red pepper flakes?

With the recommended 1/4 teaspoon, the sauce has a very mild heat that enhances the garlic flavor without being noticeably spicy. For more heat, increase to 1/2 teaspoon, or omit entirely for no heat

Can I use this sauce on other foods besides pizza?

Definitely! This versatile sauce works beautifully on pasta, as a spread for garlic bread, as a marinade for grilled chicken, or as a finishing sauce for steamed vegetables. It's essentially a flavor-boosting condiment for countless dishes

How can I make this sauce less garlicky for kids or those sensitive to strong garlic flavor?

Use the heating method (Step 5) which mellows the garlic considerably. Additionally, reduce to just 2 cloves of garlic and increase the butter slightly. Adding an extra tablespoon of Parmesan can also help balance the garlic flavor with savory notes

Garlic Sauce for Pizza: Unbelievably Good & Easy

Description

An incredibly simple garlic sauce for pizza that transforms homemade pizza night with minimal effort but maximum impact. This versatile sauce combines the perfect balance of creamy richness and zesty garlic punch that commercial versions simply can’t match.

Ingredients

Scale

4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
4–6 cloves of fresh garlic (adjust according to your preference)
2 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra virgin)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt works best)
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Peel 4-6 cloves of garlic. Finely mince the garlic with a sharp knife or use a garlic press. Let rest for 10 minutes to allow allicin compounds to develop.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and olive oil. Use a fork or small whisk to blend until smooth and completely integrated.
Add the prepared garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the butter-oil mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
If using Parmesan cheese, fold it in gently at this stage.
(Optional) For a more mellow garlic flavor: Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and heat over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Watch carefully to ensure the garlic doesn’t brown. Remove from heat once the mixture is warm and fragrant.
Transfer your finished garlic sauce to a small container or ramekin. For best results, let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

The raw version has a more vibrant garlic punch, while the heated version offers a more mellow, rounded garlic flavor.
For best flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged versions.
This sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated, which actually enhances the flavor development.
If refrigerated, allow the sauce to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before using.
Vegan option: Replace butter with plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: No-Cook or Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 65
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 80mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: <1g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: garlic sauce for pizza, pizza dipping sauce, homemade garlic sauce, garlic butter sauce, pizza garlic sauce, easy garlic sauce, Italian garlic sauce