Name: Homemade Pizza Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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A rich and flavorful homemade pizza sauce made from simple pantry ingredients. I like to use this sauce as a base for all kinds of pizzas, from classic cheese to veggie-loaded or meat lovers. It’s thick, zesty, and perfectly balanced — just what a great pizza needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy this pizza sauce is to whip up. With only a few ingredients I usually have on hand, I can make a sauce that tastes fresher and better than store-bought. It has the perfect texture, clings nicely to the dough, and brings that authentic Italian flavor without any fuss. Plus, I can adjust the seasoning to match whatever pizza style I’m going for.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

I heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Then I add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1–2 minutes until it’s nice and fragrant.
I stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste until everything is smooth and combined.
Next, I add the oregano, basil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if I want a little heat).
I reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, giving it a stir every now and then.
Once it’s done, I take it off the heat and let it cool before spreading it on my pizza dough.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce, which is enough for 2 large pizzas or 4 smaller ones.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Serving size: 1/4 cup

Variations

If I want a sweeter sauce, I add a touch more sugar.
For a smoky twist, I use smoked paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder.
Sometimes I blend in some fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
I swap garlic powder for fresh garlic if I’m in a rush.
I skip the red pepper flakes when I want a milder version, especially for kids.

storage/reheating

I store the leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
If I want to keep it longer, I freeze it in small containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I just warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

How much sauce should I use per pizza?

I usually spread about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of sauce for a 12-inch pizza. Enough to cover the dough without making it soggy.

Can I make this sauce without tomato paste?

Yes, but the texture will be thinner. I might simmer it longer to thicken it up, or use crushed tomatoes as a substitute.

Is this pizza sauce good for freezing?

Absolutely. I portion it out, freeze it, and just thaw what I need. It tastes just as good after freezing.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

I can, but I’d need to cook them down longer and maybe blend them for a smoother texture. Canned gives me that rich flavor fast.

Is this sauce only for pizza?

Not at all. I use it for calzones, dipping breadsticks, or even spreading on sandwiches for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade pizza sauce has become a go-to in my kitchen. It’s easy, full of flavor, and so much better than anything from a jar. Whether I’m throwing together a weeknight pizza or prepping for a pizza party, this sauce never lets me down.