The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce

Creating the perfect pizza starts with a delicious sauce, and today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce. This sauce is bursting with fresh flavors and takes just a few minutes to whip up. With simple ingredients and a few techniques, you’ll have a rich, aromatic sauce that elevates any pizza night. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of homemade pizza sauce!

Why This Recipe Works

What sets this homemade pizza sauce apart is its balance of flavors and simplicity. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and crushed tomatoes creates a vibrant and aromatic base that perfectly complements your favorite toppings. Using a splash of olive oil adds richness, while a pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Plus, the option to use a mesh splatter screen allows you to cook your sauce without making a mess, which is always a win in my kitchen!

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s what you’ll need to create The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce:

• 1 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced OR 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon (2g) sugar

These ingredients are likely already in your pantry or garden, making this recipe not only delicious but also accessible.

Equipment & Tools

You’ll need a few handy tools to make your pizza sauce:

• Large pot – for simmering the sauce.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring.
• Mesh splatter screen – optional but nice to have to keep your stovetop clean.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements.

Having the right equipment will make your sauce-making process smoother and more enjoyable.

Build The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Step by Step

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by pouring the olive oil into a large pot over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Add the pressed or minced garlic to the pot. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Crushed Tomatoes

Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine with the garlic and oil. This will be the base of your sauce, so ensure it’s well mixed.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the sliced fresh basil or dried basil, along with the teaspoon of sugar. Stir everything together, ensuring the sugar is dissolved. This step is crucial for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes, making your sauce taste vibrant and fresh.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. If you’re using a mesh splatter screen, place it over the pot to prevent any splatters. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

After simmering, taste your sauce. If you feel it needs more seasoning, add a pinch of salt or a bit more sugar, adjusting to your preference.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

This sauce is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:

• Warm Weather: Use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season for an even brighter flavor. Simply blanch, peel, and crush them before adding them to the pot.
• Cool Weather: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This warming spice is perfect for cozy pizza nights.

What I Learned Testing

I experimented with different types of tomatoes and herbs, and here’s what I discovered:

• Canned tomatoes provide a consistent flavor and texture, making them my go-to choice.
• Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly, especially when added towards the end of cooking.
• Don’t skip the sugar! It’s a small addition that makes a huge difference in balancing acidity.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily make this sauce ahead of time. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.

Common Qs About The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used for a lighter, fresher sauce. Just make sure to blanch, peel, and crush them before adding to the pot.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer longer to evaporate excess liquid, or you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the texture.

Can I add meat to the sauce?

Yes! Ground meat, such as beef or turkey, can be browned in the pot before adding the garlic. It adds a hearty richness to your sauce.

What are some other uses for this sauce?

This sauce is not just for pizza! Use it for pasta dishes like Easy 3 Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta, or as a base for a delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta. It also works wonderfully as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or calzones.

Try These Next

If you love this sauce, you might enjoy:

• Garlic Herb Focaccia – Perfect for dipping in your pizza sauce or as a side.
• Easy 3 Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta – A quick and easy meal using your delicious sauce.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta – A delightful twist on pasta that pairs perfectly with your homemade sauce.

Final Bite

In just a few steps, you’ve crafted The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce that will transform your pizza nights into something extraordinary. With the right balance of flavors and a few fresh ingredients, this sauce will become a staple in your kitchen. Pair it with your favorite pizza dough and toppings, and you’ll have a pie that rivals your favorite pizzeria!

Now, don’t just take my word for it—try it out for yourself! I promise you won’t regret it. Happy cooking!