Homemade pizza sauce is a simple and delicious way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your pizza night. Made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, herbs like basil and oregano, and a touch of olive oil, this sauce has the perfect balance of tangy and savory that makes every slice taste amazing. It’s so easy to whip up, and nothing beats the smell of simmering sauce filling your kitchen.
I love making this sauce because it feels like such a treat compared to store-bought jars. I usually let it simmer on the stove while I get everything else ready, and the whole house smells like an Italian trattoria. My tip is to use good quality canned tomatoes if you don’t have fresh ones, and to taste as you go so the flavors can really shine just the way you like them.
When it comes to serving, spreading this sauce on pizza dough is always my favorite part. It’s rich and flavorful, but not too heavy, so it lets the toppings really stand out. Whether you’re making a simple Margherita or piling on veggies, this homemade sauce makes every bite better and brings that extra homemade love to your pizza night.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crushed Tomatoes: These are the heart of the sauce, giving it that fresh tomato flavor. If you can’t find canned crushed tomatoes, you can crush whole canned tomatoes by hand or in a blender. Fresh tomatoes work too, just peel and cook them down.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic taste. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is best for that authentic flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps mellow the garlic and blends the flavors. If you don’t have olive oil, vegetable or canola oil will do, but extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness.
Herbs (Oregano and Basil): These bring classic Italian flavor. Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, but fresh basil leaves added at the end can brighten the sauce even more.
Sugar: Not always necessary but helpful to balance acidity, especially if your tomatoes are tart. You can skip it or use honey as a natural alternative.
How Do You Make the Sauce Thick and Flavorful Without Overcooking?
Simmer your sauce gently to develop flavor and thicken it just right.
- Start by gently sautéing garlic in olive oil to release its aroma without burning it.
- Add tomatoes and herbs, then bring everything to a light simmer – avoid boiling hard as this can make the sauce bitter.
- Cook uncovered on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then. This lets excess water evaporate, thickening your sauce.
- Taste your sauce during simmering to balance salt, herbs, or sweetness.
- Once it’s thickened to your liking, remove from heat and cool a bit before spreading on your dough.
This gentle simmer step is key to a rich, bright pizza sauce that’s perfect for topping your homemade pizza.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – perfect size for simmering the sauce without splashing.
- Saucepan lid or splatter guard – helps control splatter while simmering.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring gently without scratching your pan.
- Garlic press or knife – to mince garlic finely and release its flavor.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate herb and spice amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick in your sauce.
- Mix in a tablespoon of sun-dried tomato paste for a deeper, richer tomato flavor.
- Stir in fresh chopped basil at the end instead of dried herbs for a fresher taste.
- Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, milder garlic flavor.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, peeled and crushed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a few fresh basil leaves, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sauce takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to simmer, so plan for about 25 minutes total before your pizza is ready to be topped.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned, to bring out its flavor without bitterness.
2. Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add dried oregano, dried basil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Stir everything well to mix the flavors.
3. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
4. Finish and Cool:
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the pan from heat and allow the sauce to cool a bit before spreading it over your pizza dough. This sauce is now ready to make your homemade pizza tasty and fresh!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Just peel and crush ripe tomatoes before cooking. You might need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the right thickness.
How Long Can I Store Homemade Pizza Sauce?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! Making it a day in advance actually enhances the flavors. Simply reheat gently before using on your pizza.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
You can use vegetable or canola oil if you don’t have olive oil, but olive oil adds the best flavor and richness to the sauce.
