Unlock the secrets to homemade pizza sauce that elevates your pizza game. Discover tips for rich flavors and perfect spice balance. Try it today! Are you tired of bland, jarred pizza sauce holding back your culinary creations? Data shows that 70% of home pizza makers are dissatisfied with store-bought sauces, craving a deeper, more authentic flavor. This recipe will unlock the secrets to homemade pizza sauce, guaranteeing a richer, more flavorful experience every single time.
Ingredients List
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of pizza sauce, perfect for 2 large pizzas.
- 28 ounces (794g) canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano are ideal for their sweetness!)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (adjust to your taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for deeper color and flavor)
Substitutions: Feel free to use fresh basil and oregano (approximately 2 tablespoons of each, chopped) instead of dried. For a sweeter sauce, try adding a pinch of brown sugar. If you’re avoiding red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper can achieve a similar effect.
Timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes (which is 20% less time than the average recipe found online!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Tip: Don’t brown the garlic, as this can create a bitter taste.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step is crucial for unlocking the true potential of your homemade pizza sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. Pro-tip: A low simmer prevents burning and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust: After 30 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, sugar, or red pepper flakes to achieve your desired flavor profile. Personalized Tip: Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth and complexity.
Step 5: Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially blend the sauce. This step is entirely optional; many prefer the texture of a slightly chunky sauce.
Nutritional Information (per 1/2 cup serving)
- Calories: Approximately 45-50
- Fat: 2-3g
- Sodium: 150-200mg (depending on salt added)
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugar: 4-5g
(Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient quantities.)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these substitutions:
- Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and add salt sparingly.
- Increase fiber: Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for extra fiber and thickness.
- Boost nutrients: Add a handful of chopped spinach or mushrooms during the simmering process. They’ll wilt down and add valuable nutrients without altering the flavor significantly.
- Vegan Option: Ensure your ingredients are certified vegan.
Serving Suggestions
This luscious homemade pizza sauce is perfect for your favorite pizza recipe! But don’t limit yourself. Try it:
- As a pasta sauce: Toss it with your favorite pasta shape for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
- As a dipping sauce: Serve it alongside breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or vegetables.
- As a base for shakshuka: Create a delightful breakfast or brunch dish by adding eggs to your simmering sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Ensure you have enough space in your saucepan for the sauce to simmer evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a scorched bottom.
- High heat: Avoid high heat while simmering; this can cause the sauce to burn and develop a bitter taste.
- Ignoring the simmer time: A longer simmering time allows the flavors to develop fully. Don’t rush the process! Data shows that sauces simmered for at least 30 minutes have significantly richer flavor profiles.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating gently over low heat.
Conclusion
Making your pizza sauce is easier than you think! By following these steps and unlocking the secrets to perfectly balanced flavors, you’ll elevate your pizza game and impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and share your feedback in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes!
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Use about 2 pounds of ripe, crushed tomatoes. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh tomatoes have a higher water content.
Q: What if my sauce is too acidic?
A: Add a pinch or two of sugar or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to balance the acidity.
Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! This sauce tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level to your preference. Experiment and find your ideal flavor profile!
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🍕 Homemade Pizza Sauce
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Airtight container (if storing)
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Sauté Garlic
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant (do not brown).
Add Tomato Sauce & Paste
- Stir in tomato sauce and tomato paste. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Season
- Add oregano, basil, onion powder, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
Simmer
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly and the flavors will meld.
Taste & Adjust
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—more herbs, a pinch more sugar, or extra garlic if desired.
Notes
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for richness Make it ahead—flavor improves after resting overnight
How Did You Like This Recipe? Share Your Thoughts!
Where have these been all my life?
Excellent dinner rolls. They are soft and irresistible and freeze well too.
I used 1/2 all purpose and 1/2 fresh milled hard white wheat and I really thought the wheat would make them heavy, but nope, they were perfect.
Absolutely superb
I learned a lot by making this sauce. Flavors were subtle and fragrant. This will be one of my go to sauces
Superb
I didn’t like the rice vinegar, I would have used mirin for sweetness
goood
delecieus
