Table of Contents: Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce
Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce
Remember the aroma of a wood-fired pizza wafting through the air, the anticipation of that first delicious bite? Recreate that magic in your own kitchen with this incredibly simple Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce.
Forget store-bought versions loaded with preservatives – this recipe delivers authentic Italian flavor in just minutes, making pizza night a breeze for everyone. It’s the secret ingredient to elevating your homemade pizzas from good to unforgettable.
Introduction: Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce
There’s something deeply satisfying about making your own food from scratch, and this Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce is the perfect example. It’s a foundational recipe, a building block for countless delicious meals, and surprisingly easy to master.
We’re talking about a vibrant, flavorful sauce that rivals anything you’d find in a pizzeria, but without the long ingredient lists or complicated techniques. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a shortcut to authentic Italian taste, a way to bring the joy of homemade pizza to your table any night of the week.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply craving an easy weeknight meal, this sauce is your go-to solution.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort, yet the result is a rich, aromatic sauce bursting with the taste of ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs. It’s a far cry from the often-bland, overly-sweet store-bought options.
This quick pizza sauce is a testament to the fact that incredible flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Imagine the smiles on your family’s faces as you pull a perfectly pizza from the oven, knowing you created the delicious foundation with your own hands.
This basic tomato sauce is incredibly versatile too. While it shines on pizza, don’t limit it! It’s fantastic as a base for pasta dishes, a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks, or even as a component in lasagna.
It’s a true kitchen workhorse, ready to elevate any Italian-inspired creation. So, ditch the jarred stuff and embrace the ease and deliciousness of homemade – you won’t regret it!
Alternate Names & Variations
This recipe is known by many names, reflecting its versatility and widespread appeal. You might also search for “simple pizza sauce,” “homemade tomato pizza sauce,” or even “Italian pizza sauce.”
For a slightly richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it after simmering. And for those who love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick to this quick pizza sauce.
Ingredients: Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce

- * 1 cup water, or as needed (to adjust consistency)
- * 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste – the foundation of our flavorful sauce!
- * ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – for richness and depth of flavor.
- * 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian aroma.
- * ½ tablespoon dried oregano – a cornerstone of Italian cuisine.
- * ½ tablespoon dried basil – adds a sweet, herbaceous note.
- * ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed – for a subtle, earthy complexity.
- * Salt and ground black pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors.
Gather all ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste to the sauce. Chef’s Tip: Using a garlic press can make mincing the garlic even easier.
- 2. Add the Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps to caramelize the tomato paste, intensifying its flavor and reducing its acidity. Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the flavor will be slightly less complex.
- 3. Add Water and Seasonings: Gradually add the water, stirring until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4. Simmer and Develop Flavor: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Chef’s Tip: Taste the sauce periodically and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- 5. Cool and Use: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using it on your pizza.
Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)
This Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce is a simple delight! Prep time is just 5 minutes, and cook time is 20-30 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 1 ½ cups of sauce, enough for 4-6 pizzas, depending on size. Estimated calories per serving (based on 1/4 cup) are around 50-75, but this will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of simple ingredients and the crucial step of caramelizing the tomato paste. This process unlocks a deeper, richer flavor that you just won’t find in store-bought sauces. The slow simmering allows the herbs to infuse the sauce, creating a complex and aromatic profile.
It’s easy comfort food for family dinners, and the best part is, you can customize it to your liking! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs or spices to create your own signature pizza sauce. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, transformed into something truly extraordinary.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Leftover Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This quick pizza sauce freezes beautifully, ensuring you always have a delicious base for your next pizza night.
People Also Ask: Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce

How do you make easy homemade pizza sauce?
Making easy homemade pizza sauce is surprisingly straightforward! It starts with sautéing minced garlic in olive oil, then adding tomato paste and cooking it for a few minutes to deepen the flavor. Next, you gradually add water, stir in dried oregano, basil, and rosemary, and season with salt and pepper.
Finally, simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes and yields a far superior sauce compared to store-bought options. It’s a simple way to elevate your pizza game!
What are the basic ingredients for pizza sauce?
The basic ingredients for pizza sauce are incredibly simple and likely already in your pantry! You’ll need tomato paste as the base, extra virgin olive oil for richness, minced garlic for flavor, and dried oregano, basil, and rosemary for that classic Italian aroma.
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning. While some recipes call for fresh ingredients, this recipe focuses on ease and accessibility, using dried herbs for convenience. It’s a testament to how a few key ingredients can create something truly delicious.
Can I use tomato paste for pizza sauce?
Absolutely! Tomato paste is the star of this Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce recipe. It provides a concentrated tomato flavor and a thicker consistency than crushed tomatoes. Using tomato paste allows you to control the sweetness and acidity of the sauce, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful pizza.
The key is to cook the tomato paste slightly before adding the water, which helps to caramelize it and reduce its acidity.
How long does homemade pizza sauce last?
Homemade pizza sauce typically lasts for 5 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Freezing is a great way to ensure you always have a delicious sauce on hand for pizza night.
When thawing, allow the sauce to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating and using. Proper storage ensures your homemade sauce remains fresh and flavorful.
Conclusion: Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce that will transform your pizza nights! We hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy of creating your own delicious, authentic pizza sauce.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. We’d love to hear about your pizza creations – share your results and comments below! Happy cooking!
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Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 1.5 cups 1x
Description
Whip up this flavorful homemade pizza sauce in just 20 minutes! Our rich tomato base infused with garlic and Mediterranean herbs brings authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight pizzas or meal prep – you’ll never go back to store-bought sauce!
Ingredients
- 1 cup water, or as needed
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ tablespoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine tomato paste, olive oil, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth.
- Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and crushed rosemary. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
Notes
Tips: For deeper flavor, let sauce simmer uncovered for 20+ minutes. Substitute fresh herbs when in season (use 3x the amount). Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: B
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 0
Keywords: easy pizza sauce, homemade tomato sauce, quick pizza topping