Homemade Pizza Sauce Easy Recipe for Perfect Pizzas Every Time

Ella
Ella
Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by...
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If you’re searching for a homemade pizza sauce easy enough to whip up in minutes yet packed with bold, authentic flavor, you’re in for a treat. This simple recipe brings the taste of Italy straight to your kitchen—no fancy ingredients or cooking skills required. Keep reading to discover the secret to pizza perfection that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

This easy sauce recipe brings rustic Italian flavor into your American kitchen.
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 1⁄4 cup

Description

There is something undeniably magical about homemade pizza sauce simmering on the stove. The air fills with the bold aroma of crushed tomatoes and garlic, dancing with hints of basil and oregano. It takes you to a cozy Sunday evening in an Italian-American kitchen, where stories are shared over bubbling pots and fresh dough is thrown in the air. This easy homemade pizza sauce is rich and robust with a balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors— all working harmoniously to elevate your pizza game.

Imagine the velvety texture of ripe tomatoes melding with warm olive oil and fragrant seasonings. Each spoonful is layered with depth, like a sauce that has been slow-cooked for hours, though it comes together in minutes. Whether you’re planning a build-your-own pizza night or prepping something quick for the kids, this sauce brings comfort and gourmet flair right from your stovetop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy homemade pizza sauce is a weeknight hero. It comes together using pantry staples and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. No preservatives. No hidden sugars. Just simple, honest ingredients you likely already have on hand. Because it is homemade, you control the flavor and thickness, making it as bold or as sweet as your family loves.

Not only is this sauce perfect for pizza, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Use it as a dip for breadsticks, a base for flatbreads, or even stirred into pasta for a quick red sauce. You can make a large batch and freeze it, ensuring you’ve always got your favorite sauce ready for impromptu pizza nights or after-school snacks.

Serving and Storage Tips

This pizza sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using. It heats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much after freezing, simply stir in a splash of olive oil or water to loosen it back up.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Garlic press or chef’s knife
  • Airtight container for storage

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Let it warm for about 30 seconds.
  2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or it may turn bitter.
  3. Step 3: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. The paste may need a minute to fully dissolve into the crushed tomatoes—keep stirring until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Add the sugar, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until completely mixed.
  5. Step 5: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
  6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a silkier finish, blend the sauce using an immersion blender or regular blender once cooled slightly.
  7. Step 7: Cool slightly and use immediately, or let it cool completely before storing in the refrigerator or freezer.

Nutrition per serving

Calories 65
Protein 2g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fat 3g
Sugar 5g
Fiber 2g
Sodium 280mg

Recipe Notes

For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes. If using fresh tomatoes, peel and crush about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Let them simmer longer to remove excess water and intensify their flavor. Roma or plum tomatoes work particularly well for sauce.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Use real Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly and may have additives that affect texture and flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for added umami flavor.

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Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce

This easy homemade pizza sauce simmers quickly to deliver classic Italian-American flavors. Velvety tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs combine into a robust, versatile sauce perfect for pizza, dipping, pasta, and more. Completely customizable, naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Sauce, Condiment, Dinner
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 65 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese optional, recommended for richness

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well until the tomato paste is fully incorporated.
  • Add sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce with an immersion blender.
  • Let the sauce cool slightly before using on pizza dough or refrigerating for later use.

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 2gFat: 3gSodium: 280mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g
Keyword homemade pizza sauce, easy pizza sauce, pizza night, tomato sauce, pizza topping
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Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by home, travel, and the joy of simple ingredients. From cozy comfort food to bold global flavors, YummyHorizon is your place to explore, taste, and create. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, I'm here to guide you through flavorful journeys- one delicious recipe at a time. Welcome to my kitchen, where every meal opens a new horizon.