Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe
I’ve always been a pizza lover, but it wasn’t until I whipped up my own pizza sauce that I realized what I’d been missing. Store-bought jars just don’t compare to the vibrant, zesty flavor of homemade. This recipe is my go-to—simple, quick, and bursting with fresh ingredients.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a sauce that elevates any pizza night. In about 10 minutes, you’ll have a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and perfect for spreading on your favorite crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pizza sauce is a game-changer. It’s easy to make, requiring no cooking, and uses ingredients you likely already have. The bold flavors from fresh garlic, herbs, and tomatoes make every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s versatile—use it on pizza, as a dipping sauce, or even in pasta dishes!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None (no-cook recipe)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 2 cups (enough for 2–3 large pizzas)
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pizza sauce:
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin works best)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and a whisk or spoon. Mince your garlic finely—I love using a microplane for this; it makes the garlic almost melt into the sauce. Having everything ready makes this process a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Base
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the bowl. Add the olive oil—it gives the sauce a smooth, rich texture. Stir until the oil blends in nicely.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Toss in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. I like a pinch of sugar to mellow out the tomatoes’ acidity, but you can skip it if you prefer a tangier sauce. Give everything a good stir.
Step 4: Season and Taste
Add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too tart, a little more sugar does the trick.
Step 5: Let It Rest (Optional)
For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for 10–15 minutes. This gives the herbs and garlic time to meld. If you’re in a rush, you can use it right away—it’s still delicious!
Helpful Tips
- Use Quality Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are my favorite for their sweet, rich flavor. If you can’t find them, any high-quality crushed tomatoes work.
- Fresh Herbs Option: If you have fresh basil or oregano, use 1 tablespoon each, finely chopped, for a brighter taste.
- Adjust Thickness: If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon of water. Too thin? Let it sit uncovered to thicken slightly.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with extra spices like thyme or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
Variations
- Spicy Pizza Sauce: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Herb-Forward Sauce: Double the oregano and basil for an extra herbaceous punch.
- Creamy Pizza Sauce: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream for a richer, smoother sauce, perfect for white pizzas.
- Chunky Style: Swap crushed tomatoes for diced tomatoes if you like a heartier texture.
How to Serve
Spread this sauce generously on your homemade or store-bought pizza dough. It’s also fantastic as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or even as a base for pasta dishes. For a fun twist, use it in calzones or as a marinade for grilled veggies. A little goes a long way, but don’t be shy—it’s the star of the show!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. I love using a mason jar for easy pouring.
- Freezer: Freeze in small portions (like 1/2 cup) for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to save space.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen sauce in the fridge overnight or warm it gently on the stove over low heat.
Nutrition Facts (Per 1/4 Cup Serving)
- Calories: 45 kcal
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Blend 4–5 medium fresh tomatoes until smooth, then strain to remove excess water. You may need to simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes to thicken it.
Do I need to cook this sauce?
Nope! This no-cook recipe is ready to use right away. If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can simmer it for 15–20 minutes on low heat.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ingredients (like canned tomatoes) are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.
How much sauce do I need for one pizza?
About 1/2 to 3/4 cup for a 12-inch pizza, depending on how saucy you like it.
Conclusion
This homemade pizza sauce is your ticket to pizza night perfection. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold, fresh flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re topping a classic Margherita or getting creative with your own pizza masterpiece, this sauce delivers every time. So, grab those pantry staples, whip up a batch, and let your kitchen smell like an Italian pizzeria. Try it out, share it with friends, or leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out!
