There’s something magical about a rich, velvety pizza sauce that ties every slice together with bold, tangy flavor. This Homemade Pizza Sauce is a game-changer, blending ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a hint of herbs into a luscious base that’s ready in just 5 minutes. Perfectly smooth yet packed with depth, it’s the secret to elevating your pizza night from ordinary to extraordinary.
With its vibrant, fresh taste and effortless preparation, this sauce is a kitchen staple you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re crafting a classic Margherita or experimenting with creative toppings, its bright, savory notes will shine through. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought. Let this sauce be the star of your next homemade pizza adventure!
Fresh & Flavorful Pizza Sauce Ingredients
- 3 garlic cloves (peeled and roughly chopped)
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes (drained; substitute with crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture)
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (adds richness and thickness)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (use high-quality for best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cane sugar (balances acidity; substitute with honey or omit if preferred)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Simple Steps to Perfect Pizza Sauce
- Prepare the garlic: Place the garlic cloves in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
- Combine ingredients: Add the drained whole tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, sugar, and several grinds of black pepper to the food processor.
- Blend until smooth: Process the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Use or store: Spread the sauce directly onto your pizza dough (no pre-cooking required). Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
This homemade pizza sauce pairs beautifully with classic toppings like fresh mozzarella, basil, and pepperoni. For a gourmet twist, try adding caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, or prosciutto. Vegetarian? Load up with artichokes, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
Quick Recipe Variations
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. Short on time? Skip the food processor and use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. You can also swap cane sugar for honey for a subtle sweetness.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Double the recipe and freeze half for future pizza nights—it’s a lifesaver! If you’re in a rush, pre-measure the ingredients the night before. This sauce comes together in just 5 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
Homemade Pizza Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, place the garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the whole tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, sugar, and several grinds of pepper. Process until smooth and season to taste.
- Spread pizza sauce directly on stretched pizza dough (there’s no need to cook it separately first). Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.