A great pizza starts with the sauce. It’s the layer that brings everything together, the crust, the cheese, the toppings, and when it’s done right, every bite just hits. A rich, well-seasoned pizza sauce turns even the simplest dough into something special.
Homemade pizza sauce is fresher, more flavorful, and far more customizable than anything from a jar. No preservatives, no mystery ingredients, just tomatoes, herbs, garlic, and a little patience. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita, a spicy pepperoni pizza, or a veggie-loaded pie, this pizza sauce is smooth, balanced, and foolproof. Best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Pro Tip: Fresh tomatoes work too, just chop and simmer them longer until soft, thick, and pulpy.
Kitchen Tools
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
How to Make Pizza Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown, as burnt garlic turns bitter fast.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes & Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add oregano, basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Simmer for Flavor
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. This thickens the sauce and allows the flavors to fully develop.
If it becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it slightly.
Step 4: Taste & Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust:
- Too tangy? Add a pinch of sugar
- Too mild? Add more salt, herbs, or pepper flakes. This is where you make it your sauce.
Step 5: Cool & Use
Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly before spreading it on pizza dough. Use immediately or store for later.
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Sauce
- Go light on sauce, too much can make pizza soggy
- Fresh herbs give a brighter, more aromatic flavor
- Blend for smoothness if you prefer a silky sauce
- Let it rest, as sauce tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge
Easy Flavor Variations
- Spicy Pizza Sauce: Extra red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil
- Garlic Lovers’ Sauce: Add one more garlic clove
- Smoky Sauce: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika
- Rich & Deep: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before use
This homemade pizza sauce is simple, bold, and endlessly customizable, the kind of foundation that quietly upgrades your entire pizza game. Once you make it yourself, store-bought sauce won’t hit the same. The freshness, balance, and depth of flavor make every bite feel more intentional, like you actually understand what makes great pizza work.
It’s nourishing, free from unnecessary preservatives, and built entirely around real ingredients you can taste and trust. Whether you keep it classic or tweak it with extra herbs, spice, or sweetness, this sauce adapts to your style and brings everything together beautifully. Spread it generously, top it boldly, bake it hot, and enjoy that rich, herby, tomato goodness that turns homemade pizza into something truly special
