Homemade pizza sauce is a delightful way to take your pizza game to the next level. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and uses fresh ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, it’s customizable to your taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fun pizza night with friends and family.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 70
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 120mg
Why Make Homemade Pizza Sauce
There are countless reasons to make your own homemade pizza sauce. For starters, you’ll know exactly what ingredients go into it, ensuring a fresh and healthful option for your pizzas. Unlike store-bought varieties, this homemade version has no preservatives or added sugars, making it a wholesome choice. Plus, you can easily adjust the herbs and spices to suit your personal taste, making this sauce not only delicious but also versatile for any pizza combination you can imagine.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce Step by Step
Ingredients
1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
Salt to taste
Directions
Gather all ingredients and drain the canned tomatoes. In a blender, pulse the canned tomatoes until smooth but slightly chunky. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in dried oregano and basil; cook for another minute. Add blended tomatoes, sugar, and salt; bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens, then cool before use.
How to Serve Homemade Pizza Sauce
Using homemade pizza sauce is a varied experience. It’s perfect for traditional pizzas, or you can use it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or calzones. Pair it with a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors and add freshness to your meal. You can even use it as a base for lasagna or other pasta dishes for a flavorful twist.
How to Store Homemade Pizza Sauce
Storing homemade pizza sauce is a breeze. After cooking, let the sauce cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it in smaller portions. Simply pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw when needed. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Expert Tips for Cooking Homemade Pizza Sauce
- Choose high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor, San Marzano is a favorite.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; it helps to deepen the flavor.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices, such as red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh herbs for added aroma.
- Make a large batch and freeze extra sauce for quick pizza nights.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as you go!
Delicious Variations of Homemade Pizza Sauce
For those looking to switch things up, consider these variations. A spicy pizza sauce can be made by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A herbed sauce can include additional fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor profile. If you want something different, try a citrus-infused sauce by adding a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Pizza Sauce
What can I use if I don’t have canned tomatoes? Fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll need to peel and cook them down for a similar consistency.
Can I add meat to the sauce? Yes, you can sauté ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni in the olive oil before adding the garlic for a meaty sauce.
Can I use this sauce for pasta dishes? Absolutely! This homemade pizza sauce makes a great base for a variety of pasta dishes.
How do I adjust the thickness of the sauce? If it’s too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency. If too thin, continue simmering until it thickens.
Conclusion
Making homemade pizza sauce is a rewarding process that enhances your pizza experience. With its fresh taste and ease of preparation, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your kitchen arsenal. So gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and enjoy a delicious meal with homemade pizza sauce as your star ingredient!
Homemade Pizza Sauce
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients and drain the canned tomatoes.
- In a blender, pulse the canned tomatoes until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stir in dried oregano and basil; cook for another minute.
- Add blended tomatoes, sugar, and salt; bring to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens, then cool before use.
