Name: Savory Pizza Sauce That's Quick, Easy, and Flavor-Packed
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 28 ounces whole tomatoes (substitute with fresh Roma tomatoes (1.5 to 1.75 pounds) if preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil (can use a neutral oil for a twist); 0.25 cup grated onions (or finely minced; skip if you're not an onion fan); 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano (double if using fresh oregano); 1 teaspoon dried basil (fresh basil can be used in double the quantity); 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on your heat preference or omit); 3 cloves garlic (pressed; leave out if sensitive to garlic); 2 teaspoons sugar (reduce or omit according to taste); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust with sea or table salt as needed)

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When the craving for pizza strikes, there’s nothing quite like a rich, homemade pizza sauce to elevate your culinary experience. Imagine the warm aroma of simmering tomatoes mingling with fragrant herbs filling your kitchen, guiding you on a delightful culinary journey. I often reflect on those evenings when my friends gather around the table, laughter and good company paired with a homemade pizza, all thanks to this incredibly simple sauce.

This Ultimate Homemade Pizza Sauce is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with flavors that far surpass anything you’ll find in a jar. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a sauce that’s perfect for pizza night or as a versatile base for your pasta dishes. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can always have a taste of Italy at your fingertips. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to transform simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece!

Why is this Pizza Sauce a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: This pizza sauce is a flavor powerhouse, combining fresh ingredients for a kick that outshines store-bought options.
Quick to Make: In just 35 minutes, you can elevate your pizza night without the hassle!
Versatile Delight: Use it not only on pizza but also as a delicious sauce for pasta or a dip for breadsticks.
No Mystery Ingredients: Enjoy peace of mind meal prepping with simple, recognizable components.
Freezable Goodness: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze it for ultimate convenience on future pizza nights!

Pizza Sauce Ingredients

• Ready to create your own flavorful pizza sauce?

For the Sauce

28-ounce can whole tomatoes – This is the base of your pizza sauce, providing a rich thickness; feel free to substitute with fresh Roma tomatoes (1.5 to 1.75 pounds) if you prefer.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds a depth of flavor; for a different twist, use a neutral oil if you’d like.
¼ cup grated onions or finely minced – Infuses sweetness and aromatic notes into the sauce; skip if you’re not an onion fan.
½ – ¾ teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a fragrant herbal quality; using fresh oregano? You can double the amount.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Offers a warm, aromatic essence; fresh basil is a great substitute and can be used in double the quantity.
¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Provides a delightful kick; adjust based on your heat preference or omit entirely if needed.
3 cloves garlic, pressed – Enhances the sauce’s overall flavor profile; leave this out if you’re sensitive to garlic.
2 teaspoons sugar – Balances acidity from the tomatoes; feel free to reduce or omit it according to your taste.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Elevates the overall flavor; can be adjusted with sea salt or table salt based on your taste preferences.

Create your very own pizza sauce and experience the joy of homemade flavors!

How to Make Pizza Sauce

Prepare Tomatoes: Pour the canned whole tomatoes into a large bowl. Use your hands, kitchen shears, or an immersion blender to break them down into rough chunks. This should take just a couple of minutes!
Cook Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated onions, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and the onions are softened.
Add Garlic: Stir in the pressed garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the warmth to release its delicious aroma.
Simmer Sauce: Pour in the prepared tomatoes along with the sugar and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook for around 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Adjust Flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want a more concentrated flavor, let it simmer for up to an additional 15 minutes, stirring to prevent burning.
Cool and Store: You can use this vibrant sauce right away on your pizza, or let it cool to room temperature before storing it in containers. It freezes beautifully for future use!

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Pizza Sauce

Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before finishing to ensure the balance of acidity and flavor is just right. Small adjustments can make a big difference!
Thicker Sauce: For a thicker pizza sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce water content. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Fresh Tomato Choice: If using fresh tomatoes, opt for Roma tomatoes for their sweetness and lower water content, ensuring a great texture for your pizza sauce.
Freezing Tips: To make meal prep easier, freeze the sauce in individual portions. This will save you time on pizza nights when you want a homemade touch!
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or basil, to give your homemade pizza sauce a unique twist!

Make Ahead Options

This Ultimate Homemade Pizza Sauce is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weeknights. To do this, simply follow the recipe as directed, then cool the sauce completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. If you want to prepare it even further ahead, consider freezing it in portioned containers; it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best quality and heat gently on the stove before serving, ensuring your homemade pizza experience remains just as delicious!

Pizza Sauce Variations

Experimenting with your pizza sauce can add delightful twists to your favorite recipes! Let your creativity shine as you customize this sauce to complement your meals.

Fresh Tomato Twist: Use 1.5 to 1.75 pounds of fresh Roma tomatoes instead of canned for a garden-fresh flavor. Blanch and skin them for the best results!
Herbal Boost: Swap dried oregano and basil for fresh versions—just double the quantity for an aromatic enhancement that bursts with freshness.
Add a Kick: For some heat, toss in sliced jalapeños or diced serrano peppers while simmering. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference for a perfect kick!
Umami Upgrade: Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for a deeper, savory flavor that enhances the sauce beautifully. Don’t forget to remove it before serving!
Smoky Sensation: Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika for a delightful depth and smoky undertone that will elevate your pizza experience.
Sweet Balance: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly or add a splash of balsamic vinegar to create a rich, rounded flavor profile.
Creamy Variation: Blend in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or cashew cream after simmering for a creamy, decadent twist that makes your sauce irresistible.
Spicy Herb Mix: Combine red pepper flakes with a bit of crushed fennel seeds or Italian seasoning for a complex, aromatic flavor that’s sure to impress.

Each variation opens new doors to creativity, making your homemade pizza sauce a truly unique experience each time you whip it up!

What to Serve with Ultimate Homemade Pizza Sauce?

When you’re ready to elevate your meal, consider these delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement your homemade creation.

Freshly Baked Pizza Dough: Create a delightful base for your sauce using a chewy, golden dough that gives your pizza that authentic touch.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these crispy sticks provide the perfect way to savor every bit of your vibrant pizza sauce as a dip.
Cheesy Herb Flatbreads: The combination of melted cheese with fragrant herbs pairs beautifully with your rich sauce, adding layers of flavor to each bite.
Simple Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the rich sauce by offering a crunchy texture and bright flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky notes from grilled bell peppers and zucchini offer a hearty complement to your sauce, enhancing its flavors with a delicious twist.
Savory Meatballs: Juicy, savory meatballs provide a protein-packed addition, perfect for placing on top of your pizza or enjoying with the sauce as a dip.
Wine Pairing: A light red wine, such as Chianti, beautifully complements the rich, aromatic qualities of your homemade pizza sauce, enhancing the overall experience.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, offering a creamy, coffee-flavored treat that beautifully contrasts the savory meal.

How to Store and Freeze Pizza Sauce

Fridge: Store the pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh and ready for your next pizza night!

Freezer: Freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to use, defrost the pizza sauce in the fridge overnight or warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.

Labeling: Always label your containers with the date and contents for easy identification later. Enjoy a homemade pizza experience whenever you crave it!

Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right tomatoes for my pizza sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using a 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes, as they provide a rich base that’s easy to work with. If you prefer fresh ingredients, opt for 1.5 to 1.75 pounds of Roma tomatoes, which are sweeter and have less water. Make sure to blanch and skin them for the best texture!

How should I store leftover pizza sauce?
You can store your homemade pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its freshness!

Can I freeze pizza sauce, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to keep your pizza sauce handy. Pour the sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or warm it gently in a saucepan until heated through.

What if my pizza sauce turns out too thin?
If your sauce is a bit thinner than you’d like, no worries! Just continue simmering it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced and thickened. This typically takes an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure nothing burns.

Can my pets enjoy leftover pizza sauce?
It’s best to keep this homemade pizza sauce away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats in high quantities. If you want to share a treat with your furry friends, consider making a plain tomato sauce without added seasonings.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
While this pizza sauce is generally safe, be mindful of any dietary restrictions. For instance, the sauce contains garlic and onions, which some people may be sensitive to. Feel free to omit these ingredients for a more straightforward sauce, and always check for any ingredient allergies if you’re serving it to others.