Homemade Pizza Sauce

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A rich, vibrant Homemade Pizza Sauce is one of those simple kitchen wins that makes pizza night instantly better. This sauce brings out the deep flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in the most comforting way—it’s thick, luscious, and clings to your crust like it was born to be there.

Unlike store-bought jars, this version lets you control the sweetness, acidity, and spice, giving you a perfectly balanced base that transforms your homemade pizzas into something truly craveable. And let’s be real: when your kitchen starts to smell like an Italian pizzeria, you know you’re on the right track.

What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use for Pizza Sauce?

For best results, use canned whole San Marzano tomatoes or crushed tomatoes with no added herbs. Their natural sweetness and low acidity make them ideal for building rich flavor. If you prefer using fresh tomatoes, Roma or plum tomatoes are great—just be sure to blanch and peel them first.

Ingredients for the Homemade Pizza Sauce

Canned Tomatoes
These are the heart of the sauce. Choose high-quality whole or crushed tomatoes.

Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil gives the sauce a smooth richness and helps carry the flavor of the garlic and spices.

Garlic
Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth. It’s what gives your sauce that irresistible kick.

Onion
A small amount, finely grated or minced, adds natural sweetness and balances the acidity.

Tomato Paste
This thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor.

Dried Oregano & Basil
Classic Italian herbs that layer in the signature pizzeria flavor.

Sugar
Just a pinch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
If you like a little heat in your sauce, this is your friend.

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How To Make the Homemade Pizza Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and onions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste, dried herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize and deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes

Pour in the canned tomatoes. Use a spoon or potato masher to break them up. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

If you like a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender. Otherwise, leave it chunky for a rustic vibe.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your sauce. Add a pinch of sugar if it’s too acidic, more salt if needed, or extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy. Once it’s thickened and flavorful, it’s done!

Homemade Pizza Sauce

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How to Serve and Store Homemade Pizza Sauce

This sauce is perfect for classic margherita pizza, thick pan pizza, or thin crispy crusts. It also moonlights as a dip for breadsticks or a quick pasta sauce in a pinch.

To store, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Pro tip: freeze in small portions so it’s easy to thaw just what you need.

What to Serve With Homemade Pizza Sauce?

Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs

The perfect fluffy, cheesy dipper that soaks up every drop of sauce.

Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Turn leftovers into a saucy pasta base to pair with rich, creamy pasta.

Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower

Use the sauce as a zesty dipping partner to crispy bites.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Swap ketchup for a spoonful of this bold, tomatoey sauce.

Crispy Fried Zucchini

Crispy outside, tender inside—these are a dream with homemade sauce.

Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Pair this thick sauce with creamy pasta for a flavor fusion.

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Want More Sauce & Spread Ideas?

If this pizza sauce has your kitchen buzzing, here are more recipes you’ll love:

• KFC Style Gravy with rich, comforting flavor.
• Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam for sweet homemade spreads.
• Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe that’s perfect for party toasts.
• Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes for a bright side dish.
• Cranberry Orange Relish to bring a punchy twist to your meals.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of balsamic or a touch of smoked paprika? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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