There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of homemade pizza sauce simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with the essence of Italy. I discovered this recipe during a cozy night in, desperate for something other than the usual fast food routine. With just six simple ingredients, I was amazed at how easy it is to whip up a rich, flavorful sauce from scratch, and now I can’t imagine any pizza night without it!
This Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe captures the vibrant essence of ripe tomatoes, layered with aromatic herbs and a hint of heat from roasted chili flakes. Whether you’re crafting a Neapolitan masterpiece or a simple weeknight pizza, this sauce offers an authentic taste without the preservatives of store-bought options. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your personal preferences—want it a little thicker? Simmer longer! Love extra herbs? Pile them on!
Join me as I guide you through creating this foolproof sauce that’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen, and the perfect partner for any pizza creation. Get ready to elevate your homemade pizzas to a whole new level!
Why is this Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe comes together with just six pantry staples, making it hassle-free and accessible for anyone.
Authentic Flavor: Ripe tomatoes and aromatic herbs deliver a depth of flavor that rivals any pizzeria’s sauce.
Customizable: Adjust thickness and spice levels easily, ensuring it fits your unique taste preferences.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a spontaneous pizza night at home.
Preservative-Free: Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from using wholesome, natural ingredients and no artificial additives.
Versatile Use: Beyond pizza, try it on bruschetta, or mixed into pasta for a burst of flavor. This sauce is destined to become a regular feature in your kitchen repertoire!
Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Whole Peeled Tomatoes (2 cans) – The base for a rich flavor and texture; use canned for consistency, or fresh Roma/San Marzano when in season.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds fruity richness; opt for high-quality extra virgin for the best taste.
• Sea Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances seasoning; kosher salt can be a good substitute.
• Roasted Red Chili Flakes (2 teaspoons) – Introduces mild spiciness; adjust depending on your heat preference.
• Dried Rosemary (1 teaspoon) – Gives a savory note; can be swapped with dried oregano if desired.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (1/5 cup, torn by hand) – Adds a fresh herbal zing; incorporate towards the end of cooking to preserve its aroma.
• Optional: Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Use to balance acidity for a smoother taste if you find the sauce too tart.
How to Make Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
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Prepare Tomatoes: In a medium saucepan, pour in the 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes. Lightly crush them by hand or use a masher, aiming for small chunks for that delightful texture, but avoid pureeing them completely.
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Initial Cooking: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 2 teaspoons of roasted red chili flakes to the tomatoes. Stir everything together to create a beautiful blend of flavors.
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Simmer: Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage the flavors to concentrate nicely.
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Final Seasoning: After simmering, add in the torn fresh basil leaves, 1 teaspoon of sea salt (or kosher salt), and the optional teaspoon of sugar if you desire a smoother taste. Mix well to combine all the lovely flavors.
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Finish Cooking: Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking. Remember, a longer simmer creates a thicker, more concentrated sauce!
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Taste and Adjust: Before using, take a moment to taste your sauce. Adjust the seasonings as needed, whether it’s more salt, herbs, or spice—personalize it to perfection!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra olive oil for a touch of richness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply cook it as directed, let it cool, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, ensure the sauce is completely cool before freezing and label for easy identification. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich, delicious flavor with minimal effort on pizza night!
Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore these twists to make the recipe your own!
- Herb Blend: Swap dried rosemary with oregano or an Italian seasoning blend for vibrant herb notes. This opens up new flavor possibilities!
- Garlic-Infused: Incorporate a clove of minced garlic during initial cooking for a deeper, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.
- Mild Option: Omit chili flakes for a gentler sauce—perfect for little ones or those who prefer less heat while still enjoying the sauce’s rich essence.
- Fresh Tomato Switch: Use fresh, seasonal tomatoes instead of canned for a burst of freshness—just remember to peel and crush them first.
- Wine Boost: Add a splash of red wine after simmering the tomatoes to deepen the flavors, imparting a delicious complexity that will surprise your taste buds!
- Smoky Twist: Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique depth that adds a delightful smoky layer to your sauce.
- Sweet Balance: For extra sweetness, consider adding diced carrots during simmering. They’ll naturally sweeten the sauce and enhance its texture!
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with a few dashes of hot sauce or by increasing chili flakes. Make it your spicy secret sauce for unforgettable pizzas!
How to Store and Freeze Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
Fridge: Store your homemade pizza sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 7 days. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Remember to let the sauce cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This will help preserve its rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions: This versatile sauce can be used straight from the fridge or freezer, perfect for quick pizza nights or delicious pasta dishes!
Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
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Chunky Texture: Avoid blending the tomatoes completely; keeping a bit of chunkiness preserves the authentic texture and enhances flavor intensity.
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Quality Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil to maximize depth of flavor. Low-grade oils can diminish the overall taste of your homemade pizza sauce.
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Fresh Basil Addition: Incorporate fresh basil leaves near the end of cooking to maintain their bright aroma and flavor, which elevates your sauce.
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Simmering Time Matters: Adjust sauce thickness by controlling the simmering time. A longer simmer yields a thicker, more concentrated sauce, so keep an eye on that!
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Freezing for Later: Cool any leftover sauce completely before storing in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making weeknight meals a breeze!
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Custom Heat Level: Feel free to modify the amount of chili flakes based on your personal heat tolerance—create a sauce that’s perfect just for you!
What to Serve with Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe?
Transform your dinner into a delightful Italian feast with the perfect accompaniments to your delicious homemade pizza sauce.
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Classic Neapolitan Pizza: Nothing complements this sauce better than a fresh, hand-tossed pizza topped with your choice of cheese and favorite toppings. The rich flavors meld beautifully with melted cheese and crispy crust.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic enhance the pizza experience. Dip them into the sauce for a tasty appetizer that pairs perfectly with the meal.
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Caprese Salad: Crisp, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with olive oil refresh your palate. This salad balances the savory notes of your pizza and brings a taste of Italy to your table.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers delightful bites. Use leftovers from the sauce to make this easy, flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests.
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Italian Wine: A bottle of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio can elevate the dining experience. The acidity in these wines complements the flavors of the sauce and enhances the overall meal.
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Tiramisu: Finish off your meal with this beloved Italian dessert. The combination of coffee-soaked layers and creamy mascarpone provides a sweet contrast to the vibrant flavors of your pizza.
By pairing these items with your Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe, you’ll create a joyful dining experience that brings a taste of Italy right into your home!
Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use?
I recommend using canned whole peeled tomatoes for consistency and ease, like San Marzano or Roma. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh tomatoes in season, feel free to substitute with peeled and crushed fresh ones for that garden-fresh taste!
How do I store leftover pizza sauce?
Store your homemade pizza sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 7 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to keep that delicious flavor intact!
Can I freeze the pizza sauce?
Absolutely! Cool the sauce completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label them with the date, so you know when to use them!
What is the best way to reheat frozen pizza sauce?
To reheat the sauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps preserve the sauce’s rich flavor and texture!
How can I adjust the spice level in my sauce?
Very easily! Simply adjust the quantity of roasted red chili flakes based on your heat preference. If you like it milder, start with less and taste as you go—create a sauce that’s perfect just for you!
Can pets eat this pizza sauce?
While the ingredients are generally safe, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like olive oil and tomatoes are fine in small amounts, but avoid giving them any sauce containing salt or chili flakes, which may not be suitable for their digestive systems.
Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe That's Crazy Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes. Lightly crush them by hand or use a masher, aiming for small chunks.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 2 teaspoons of roasted red chili flakes to the tomatoes. Stir together.
- Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After simmering, add the torn fresh basil leaves, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and optional teaspoon of sugar. Mix well.
- Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking.
- Taste your sauce and adjust seasonings as needed before using.