Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce is a culinary gem that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. This sauce is incredibly simple to make, packed with rich flavors and offers a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed Sunday pizza night, this sauce can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 50
Protein: 2 grams
Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Fat: 1 gram
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 180 mg
Why Make Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
Making Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce at home means you know exactly what goes into it. The DOP San Marzano tomatoes are not only delicious but also provide a plethora of vitamins and antioxidants. This sauce is free from preservatives and additives, making it a healthier option than store-bought varieties. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for spreading on pizza, mixing into pasta, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
How to Make Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce Step by Step
Ingredients
1 (28 oz.) can/jar whole peeled DOP San Marzano tomatoes
1 teaspoon sea salt
4 fresh basil leaves
1 clove garlic, peeled (optional)
Splash of extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Directions
- Remove the tomatoes from the sauce and place them into a blender (or bowl if using an immersion blender).
- Add the salt and basil leaves.
- Pulse until the sauce is chunky or smooth, depending on your preference. To thin, if needed, add 1 tablespoon of the sauce from the can at a time (I don’t use any).
- Use your homemade pizza sauce right away, or store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to Serve Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce is a fantastic base for any type of pizza. Spread it generously on a homemade pizza dough, and top it with your favorite cheese and toppings. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a refreshing meal, or use it as a dipping sauce for cheesy breadsticks, creating a delightful snack or appetizer for gatherings.
How to Store Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
To store your Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning later. Reheat on the stove or in a microwave until warmed through, and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Cooking Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
- Use high-quality DOP San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the garlic to your preference or omit it altogether for a fresher tomato taste.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Experiment with blending times to achieve the desired texture for your sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Delicious Variations of Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
For a spicier twist, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you’re a fan of herbs, a sprinkle of oregano or thyme can elevate the flavor. For a citrusy touch, consider adding a bit of lemon zest for brightness. You can also experiment by adding roasted vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian version of the sauce.
Conclusion
Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce is not just easy to make but is bursting with authentic flavor that will elevate any dish. Its versatility and simplicity make it a great addition to your cooking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious homemade sauce!

Neapolitan San Marzano Pizza Sauce
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 28 oz. can/jar whole peeled DOP San Marzano tomatoes Use high-quality DOP San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 pieces fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic, peeled (optional) Adjust the garlic to your preference.
- 1 splash extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the tomatoes from the sauce and place them into a blender (or bowl if using an immersion blender).
- Add the salt and basil leaves.
- Pulse until the sauce is chunky or smooth, depending on your preference.
- If needed, add 1 tablespoon of the sauce from the can at a time to thin.
- Use your homemade pizza sauce right away, or store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.