Pizza Sauce from Scratch

Henry and I spent last Friday evening exactly where we always are, hovering over the kitchen island at Hungerix. We had a craving for a classic pepperoni pie. However, we realized we ran out of the jarred stuff from the store.

Henry looked at me and said, “Lucas, why don’t we just make our own Pizza Sauce from Scratch?” I laughed because I had been thinking the exact same thing. There is something truly special about the aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh garlic filling the house. We spent the next hour perfecting the ratios, tasting with small pieces of crust, and sharing stories about our favorite childhood pizzerias.

This Pizza Sauce from Scratch reminded us both that the best flavors come from simple ingredients and a little bit of patience. We believe that when you make Pizza Sauce from Scratch, you put a piece of your heart into the meal. It transforms a basic dinner into a shared experience that your family will remember for years.

You do not need fancy equipment or a professional culinary degree to master this. All you need is a pot, a spoon, and the desire to create something delicious. We invite you into our kitchen today to learn how to craft the perfect Pizza Sauce from Scratch alongside us.

Why You Will Love This Pizza Sauce from Scratch

You will absolutely adore this Pizza Sauce from Scratch because it offers a level of freshness you simply cannot find in a grocery store aisle. Most commercial brands pack their jars with excessive sugar and strange preservatives. When you prepare Pizza Sauce from Scratch, you control every single element that goes into the pot.

You choose the quality of the tomatoes. You decide exactly how much garlic suits your palate. This recipe creates a vibrant, robust flavor profile that balances acidity with a natural sweetness.

Furthermore, making Pizza Sauce from Scratch is incredibly cost-effective. You likely already have most of these pantry staples in your cupboard right now. Henry and I love how this recipe scales up easily.

You can make a double batch and keep it ready for your next pizza night. Using Pizza Sauce from Scratch also makes your home smell like a professional Italian trattoria. It provides a thick, rich texture that clings to the dough without making it soggy.

Once you taste the difference of Pizza Sauce from Scratch, you will never want to go back to the pre-made versions. It elevates a humble homemade pizza to a gourmet level with very little extra effort.

Ingredients You Will Need

Selecting the right ingredients is the most important part of making a high-quality Pizza Sauce from Scratch. We recommend using whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes for the best results. These tomatoes grow in volcanic soil, which gives them a unique sweetness and low acidity.

You will also need a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to provide a smooth mouthfeel. Fresh garlic is a non-negotiable requirement for Henry and me. We find that pre-minced garlic in a jar lacks the sharp, pungent punch needed for a bold Pizza Sauce from Scratch.

Dried herbs like oregano and basil work wonderfully here because they stand up well to the heat. However, if you have a herb garden, feel free to toss in some fresh leaves at the very end. A small amount of salt and black pepper brings all the flavors together.

If your tomatoes feel a bit too tart, a tiny pinch of sugar can balance the scales beautifully. This Pizza Sauce from Scratch thrives on the simplicity of these components.

Substitutions & Variations

Every home cook likes to put their own spin on a recipe, and Pizza Sauce from Scratch is very forgiving. If you cannot find whole peeled tomatoes, you can substitute them with tomato purée or crushed tomatoes. Keep in mind that crushed tomatoes will result in a slightly chunkier texture for your Pizza Sauce from Scratch.

If you prefer a completely smooth consistency, use a blender or food processor. For those who want a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika. Henry sometimes likes to add a splash of red wine to the pot.

This adds a sophisticated depth to the Pizza Sauce from Scratch that pairs beautifully with sausage toppings. If you follow a low-sodium diet, simply omit the salt and increase the amount of herbs. You can also swap the sugar for a bit of honey or even a shredded carrot simmered in the sauce to provide natural sweetness.

If you want a “raw” style Pizza Sauce from Scratch, you can skip the cooking process entirely. Just blend the ingredients together and let the oven do the work when you bake the pizza. However, we find that simmering the Pizza Sauce from Scratch for just fifteen minutes helps the flavors meld together perfectly. Feel free to experiment with different dried herbs like marjoram or thyme to find your signature blend.

Every home cook likes to put their own spin on a recipe, and Pizza Sauce from Scratch is very forgiving. For a delightful twist, check out our Herb Garden Pizza that pairs perfectly with this sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, prepare your work area. Henry always says that a clean station makes for a better meal. Start by opening your can of whole peeled tomatoes.

Pour the tomatoes into a large bowl and use your clean hands to crush them into small pieces. This method gives your Pizza Sauce from Scratch a rustic and authentic texture. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher.

Next, place a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat. Add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to the pan. Once the oil shimmer, add your minced garlic.

Sauté the garlic for about one minute. You must watch it closely. Do not let the garlic turn brown or bitter, as this will ruin your Pizza Sauce from Scratch.

Now, carefully pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan with the garlic and oil. Be careful of any splashes. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients.

Add the dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in the salt and the optional sugar. Turn the heat up slightly until the sauce begins to bubble gently.

Then, reduce the heat to low. Let the Pizza Sauce from Scratch simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir the pot occasionally to prevent the bottom from scorching. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly and the flavors will intensify.

Taste your Pizza Sauce from Scratch frequently. Adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs more salt or a bit more sweetness. If the sauce looks too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water.

If you prefer a very smooth sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat. Allow the Pizza Sauce from Scratch to cool completely before you spread it on your raw pizza dough.

Using hot sauce on cold dough can lead to a soggy crust, which we want to avoid. While the sauce cools, you can prepare your other toppings and preheat your oven. You have now successfully created a beautiful Pizza Sauce from Scratch that is ready for your favorite dough.

Pro Tips for Success

To get the best results from your Pizza Sauce from Scratch, always prioritize the quality of your tomatoes. San Marzano style tomatoes are the gold standard for a reason. They have fewer seeds and more flesh, which results in a thicker sauce.

Another tip is to avoid overcooking the sauce. A short simmer is all you need for Pizza Sauce from Scratch. If you boil it for hours like a pasta sauce, it will lose its bright, fresh tomato flavor.

Henry always recommends blooming your dried herbs in the oil with the garlic for a few seconds. This releases the essential oils and makes your Pizza Sauce from Scratch even more fragrant.

Always let your Pizza Sauce from Scratch cool to room temperature before using it. If you are in a rush, you can place the bowl of sauce in a larger bowl filled with ice water. This quickly brings the temperature down.

Another pro tip involves the texture. If you use a blender, do not over-process the sauce. If you blend it too much, you incorporate too much air, which can turn the sauce an orange color.

For a deep red Pizza Sauce from Scratch, a quick pulse is sufficient. Finally, remember that the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Do not worry if it looks a little thin while it is still hot on the stove.

To get the best results from your Pizza Sauce from Scratch, always prioritize the quality of your tomatoes. For a gourmet experience, try our Summer Truffle Pizza that highlights this sauce beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftover Pizza Sauce from Scratch, you are in luck! This sauce actually tastes even better the next day as the herbs continue to infuse the tomatoes. You can store the cooled Pizza Sauce from Scratch in an airtight container or a glass mason jar.

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five to seven days. For longer storage, this Pizza Sauce from Scratch freezes exceptionally well. We suggest pouring the sauce into freezer-safe bags.

Lay them flat to save space in your freezer. It will maintain its quality for about three months.

When you are ready to use your frozen Pizza Sauce from Scratch, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you are in a hurry, you can place the sealed bag in a bowl of warm water. To reheat the sauce, place it in a small saucepan over low heat.

Stir it gently until it is warmed through. You do not need to bring it to a boil again. If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a tiny splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up.

This ensures your Pizza Sauce from Scratch maintains the perfect spreading consistency for your next meal. Having a stash of this sauce in the freezer makes a quick weeknight dinner incredibly easy.

What to Serve With This Recipe

While this Pizza Sauce from Scratch is obviously perfect for pizza, it is also incredibly versatile. You can use it as a dipping sauce for homemade garlic knots or mozzarella sticks. Henry loves to serve it alongside a fresh plate of fried calamari.

It also works beautifully as a quick marinara for a bowl of spaghetti or penne. If you are making calzones or strombolis, this Pizza Sauce from Scratch is the ideal filling. We also enjoy using it as a base for meatball subs. The robust flavor of the Pizza Sauce from Scratch holds up well against hearty meats and melted provolone cheese.

For a lighter option, use the sauce to top a piece of grilled chicken and cover it with parmesan cheese for a quick chicken parm. You can even use it as a flavorful base for a shakshuka-style breakfast by poaching eggs directly in the sauce. No matter how you serve it, this Pizza Sauce from Scratch brings a touch of homemade goodness to the table.

We often serve a side salad with a light balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pizza and sauce. It creates a complete and satisfying meal that feels special every single time.

While this Pizza Sauce from Scratch is obviously perfect for pizza, it is also incredibly versatile. You can elevate your meal with our Rhubarb BBQ Chicken Pizza that uses this sauce as a base.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes for Pizza Sauce from Scratch?

Yes, you can certainly use fresh tomatoes to make Pizza Sauce from Scratch. However, you must peel and seed them first. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for thirty seconds, then plunge them into ice water to remove the skins.

We find that Roma or San Marzano varieties work best because they have less water content. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer simmering time to achieve the desired thickness for your Pizza Sauce from Scratch.

Is Pizza Sauce from Scratch the same as pasta sauce?

Pizza Sauce from Scratch is generally different from traditional pasta sauce. Pizza sauce is usually thicker and more concentrated in flavor. It often uses fewer ingredients to let the tomato flavor shine.

Pasta sauce frequently contains more liquid and is cooked for a much longer period. While you can use them interchangeably in a pinch, a dedicated Pizza Sauce from Scratch will provide a much better crust texture and flavor profile for your pizza.

How do I make my Pizza Sauce from Scratch less acidic?

If your Pizza Sauce from Scratch tastes a bit too sharp, you have a few options. A small pinch of granulated sugar is the most common fix. Alternatively, you can stir in a tiny pinch of baking soda, which neutralizes the acid chemically.

Another trick Henry uses is adding a small amount of butter at the end of the cooking process. The fat in the butter mellows out the acidity and gives the Pizza Sauce from Scratch a silky finish.

Do I have to cook Pizza Sauce from Scratch?

You do not strictly have to cook Pizza Sauce from Scratch. Many New York-style pizzerias use a “raw” sauce. They simply blend high-quality canned tomatoes with spices and apply it directly to the dough.

However, we prefer a quick 15-minute simmer. This cooking step helps the garlic soften and allows the dried herbs to fully hydrate. Cooking your Pizza Sauce from Scratch results in a more cohesive and deeply flavored sauce that we think tastes much better.

How much Pizza Sauce from Scratch do I need for one large pizza?

Typically, you need about 1/2 cup to 2/3 cup of Pizza Sauce from Scratch for a standard 12-inch to 14-inch pizza. It is important not to over-sauce your dough. Too much Pizza Sauce from Scratch can weigh down the crust and make it soggy in the center.

Start with a small ladle of sauce in the middle and spread it outward in a circular motion. This ensures an even layer of your delicious Pizza Sauce from Scratch across the entire surface.

Making pizza sauce from scratch allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to your liking, resulting in a fresher taste than store-bought options. Learn more about the art of sauce-making in this sauce guide.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This nutrition information is an estimate based on a serving size of 1/4 cup of Pizza Sauce from Scratch. This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.

We hope you enjoy making this Pizza Sauce from Scratch as much as Henry and I do. It is more than just a recipe. It is a way to bring people together around the table.

From our kitchen at Hungerix to yours, happy cooking! We know that once you master this Pizza Sauce from Scratch, your Friday nights will never be the same. Share this recipe with your friends and family so they can also experience the joy of homemade flavor.

Making Pizza Sauce from Scratch is a skill that will serve you well for a lifetime. Enjoy every bite of your wonderful creation!

Pizza Sauce from Scratch

A vibrant and robust Pizza Sauce made from scratch using fresh ingredients, perfect for elevating your homemade pizza experience.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 2 cups servings

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 45

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 28 oz Can Whole Peeled Tomatoes (San Marzano)
• 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic, Minced
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Basil
• 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/4 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
• 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt (to taste)
• 1/2 Teaspoon Granulated Sugar (Optional)

Method

 

1. Prepare your work area and open the can of whole peeled tomatoes. Crush them into small pieces in a bowl.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute.
3. Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan with the garlic and oil. Stir to combine.
4. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and optional sugar. Increase heat until bubbling, then reduce to low.
5. Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Once desired consistency is reached, remove from heat and let cool before using.

Notes

Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before spreading on pizza dough.