A rich, flavorful homemade pizza sauce recipe made with pantry staples like tomato paste, tomato sauce, and Italian herbs. Perfect for your next pizza night!

Homemade pizza sauce recipe Easy pizza sauce Classic Italian pizza sauce Thick pizza sauce for homemade pizza How to make pizza sauce from scratch

Jump to recipe

If you love making pizza at home, then you know that the sauce can make or break your pie. This easy homemade pizza sauce is rich, robust, and bursting with classic Italian flavor. Whether you're throwing together a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests on a Friday pizza night, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Pizza Sauce

Homemade pizza sauce offers a depth of flavor you simply can't get from store-bought jars. This version is thick, easy to spread, and made with pantry staples, which means you can whip it up anytime the pizza craving hits. It's also customizable—adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Best of all, it takes less than 10 minutes to make and tastes incredible.

Ingredients Breakdown

Tomato Paste (6 ounces)

This ingredient provides a concentrated tomato flavor and thick texture, giving your sauce a sturdy base that won’t make your pizza soggy.

Tomato Sauce (15 ounces)

Balances the richness of the paste and gives the sauce a smoother consistency. Look for a variety with no added herbs or salt so you have full control over flavor.

Dried Oregano (1-2 Tablespoons, to taste)

Oregano is the heart of Italian seasoning. It adds that familiar and comforting pizzeria flavor. Start with one tablespoon and increase based on your taste preference.

Italian Seasoning (2 Tablespoons)

A blend of dried herbs such as basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. This adds complexity and rounds out the flavor profile.

Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

Provides savory depth and a subtle sharpness without needing fresh garlic.

Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

Adds a hint of sweetness and mild onion flavor, complementing the tomato base perfectly.

Garlic Salt (1/2 Tablespoon)

Infuses salty, garlicky richness while enhancing all the other flavors in the sauce.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

Adds a touch of heat and sharpness to cut through the acidity of the tomatoes.

Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional)

Helps balance the acidity of the tomato paste and sauce. If you're using a naturally sweet tomato sauce, you can skip this.

Tomato paste pizza sauce Homemade pizza night ingredients Pizza sauce with herbs Family pizza night prep Best pizza sauce recipe

How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Combine the Tomato Base
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 6 ounces of tomato paste and 15 ounces of tomato sauce until smooth.

Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons dried oregano, 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 tablespoon garlic salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar (if using).

Step 3: Mix Thoroughly
Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Use or Store
Spread the sauce onto your prepared pizza dough and add your favorite toppings. If you're not using it immediately, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Tips for Success

Use quality canned tomatoes: The better the tomato products, the better your sauce. Look for organic or Italian-imported options for the best flavor.
Customize the seasoning: Love basil? Add more. Want a spicy kick? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Make it ahead: The flavors develop even more after sitting for a day in the fridge.
Use on more than just pizza: This sauce works great as a dip for breadsticks, a base for calzones, or even a sauce for Italian sandwiches.

Serving Suggestions

This sauce pairs perfectly with:

Classic Margherita Pizza
Pepperoni Pizza
Veggie-loaded Pizza
Pizza Pinwheels
Stuffed Bread or Calzones
Homemade Pizza Rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze pizza sauce?
Yes! Portion it into small containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a small dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this sauce is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure all your spices and canned goods are labeled accordingly if you have sensitivities.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
You can! Replace garlic powder with 1-2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them briefly in olive oil before mixing into the sauce for added depth.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this homemade pizza sauce, you'll never want to go back to the jarred kind. It's easy, incredibly flavorful, and adaptable to your taste. Whether you're making a quick weeknight pizza or planning a full-on pizza party, this sauce will elevate your crust and toppings to new heights.

Ready to take your homemade pizza to the next level?

Try this pizza sauce tonight and taste the difference. Don't forget to save this recipe and share it with your fellow pizza lovers!

Author: CookSnapBake.com