Homemade pizza sauce is a simple and delicious way to bring fresh, rich flavors to your pizza night. Made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, a touch of olive oil, and your favorite herbs like basil and oregano, this sauce is thick, tangy, and packed with classic Italian taste. It’s the perfect base that transforms any homemade pizza into something truly special.
I love making my own sauce because it tastes so much fresher than store-bought ones. Plus, it’s really easy to whip up in just a few minutes, and you can adjust the flavors to suit your mood—adding a bit more garlic if you’re feeling bold or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Making pizza sauce at home makes me feel like a real chef, and it always gets compliments from friends and family.
One of my favorite ways to use this homemade sauce is spreading it generously over dough, then piling on plenty of cheese, veggies, or any toppings I have on hand. It also works great as a dip for breadsticks or a base for quick skillet pizzas. Whenever I have this sauce in the fridge, I know a tasty pizza night is just around the corner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomato Sauce or Crushed Tomatoes: I prefer using crushed tomatoes for more texture, but tomato sauce works great for a smoother finish. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can blanch and crush them for an even fresher taste.
Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth. If you don’t have tomato paste, you can simmer your tomatoes longer to thicken the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a bright, punchy flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Herbs (Oregano and Basil): Dried versions are convenient and pack flavor. If using fresh, add them at the end of cooking to keep their brightness.
Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and richness. Use extra virgin for the best aroma, but any mild olive oil will do.
How Can I Make My Pizza Sauce Richer Without Cooking It Long?
Many people wonder if their pizza sauce needs long cooking. It doesn’t! Here’s how to get rich flavor quickly:
- Use tomato paste to add concentrated taste.
- Let the sauce rest at room temperature for 30 minutes or more. This helps the herbs and spices blend well.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance tomato acidity and bring out natural sweetness.
- Use good-quality olive oil to round out the flavors.
This no-cook method saves time and still gives you a tasty, fresh sauce perfect for pizza.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your sauce ingredients easily without mess.
- Measuring spoons – help you add the right amount of herbs and spices every time.
- Whisk or spoon – lets you blend the tomato paste smoothly into the sauce.
- Garlic press or knife – to mince fresh garlic finely for the best flavor.
- Storage container with lid – keeps your sauce fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, great if you like your pizza with a little heat.
- Stir in fresh chopped basil instead of dried herbs for a brighter, fresher taste.
- Mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar to add a subtle sweet tang that deepens flavor.
- Try blending in roasted red peppers for a smoky twist your family might love.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Time Needed:
This sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and mix together. If you let it rest for 30 minutes to blend the flavors, that’s even better. You can also simmer it gently for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor if you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Tomato Base:
In a medium bowl, stir tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes with tomato paste until smooth and well combined.
2. Add Flavorings:
Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, onion powder, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything evenly.
3. Finish with Olive Oil:
Add the olive oil to the sauce and stir well to bring all ingredients together. This adds smoothness and richness.
4. Let it Rest or Simmer:
For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes so the herbs and spices can meld. Alternatively, simmer gently on low heat for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
5. Use on Your Pizza:
Spread the sauce evenly over your prepared pizza dough, then add your favorite toppings and bake as directed.
6. Store Leftovers:
Keep any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Garlic press or knife for mincing garlic
- Storage container with lid
Flavor Variations & Tips:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy sauce
- Use fresh chopped basil instead of dried herbs for a bright, fresh flavor
- Mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar for subtle sweetness
- Try blending in roasted red peppers for a smoky twist
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes! If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for a minute, then peel and crush them before adding to the sauce. This will give you a fresh and vibrant flavor.
How Long Can I Store Homemade Pizza Sauce?
Store your sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze it in small portions for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Making the sauce a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Tomato Paste?
You can simmer your tomato sauce longer to reduce and thicken it, which concentrates the flavor similarly to tomato paste. Alternatively, double the amount of tomato sauce and cook gently until thickened.
