How to Make Tomato Sauce for Pizza

A rich and flavorful tomato sauce is essential for a perfect pizza. This homemade version is easy to prepare and adds a fresh, tangy base to your pie. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can make a delicious sauce that enhances your pizza experience.

how-to-make-pizza-sauce

Ingredients for Tomato Sauce

• Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz or 400g)

• Tomato paste (optional for thicker sauce): 2 tablespoons

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves

• Salt: ½ teaspoon

• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)

• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon

• Dried basil: 1 teaspoon

• Black pepper: To taste

• Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional for spice)

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Sauté the Garlic

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can make the sauce bitter.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste (if using) to the saucepan. Add salt, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, sugar, or herbs based on your preference.

Step 5: Cool and Use

Once the sauce is done, let it cool slightly before spreading it on your pizza dough. It’s now ready to become the base of your favorite pizza creation!

Tips for Perfect Pizza Tomato Sauce

1. Use Quality Tomatoes
   The flavor of your sauce depends heavily on the quality of the tomatoes. Opt for canned San Marzano tomatoes or other high-quality varieties for the best taste.

2. Customize with Fresh Herbs
   If you have fresh basil or oregano, add them towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.

3. Blending for Smoothness
   For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender after cooking. This is especially helpful if you prefer a uniform texture.

4. Make Ahead
   Pizza sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors improve over time.

5. Freeze for Convenience
   Freeze any leftover sauce in portion-sized containers or ice cube trays. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Common Questions

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes?
Yes! To use fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, then crush or blend them. Fresh tomatoes may need longer cooking to reduce their moisture and thicken the sauce.

Do I Need Tomato Paste?
Tomato paste is optional but helps thicken the sauce and intensify its flavor. You can skip it if you prefer a lighter sauce.

What’s the Difference Between Pizza Sauce and Marinara?
Pizza sauce is thicker and more concentrated than marinara, making it ideal for spreading on pizza dough. Marinara is typically used for pasta and is often thinner and more liquid.

Making your own tomato sauce for pizza is simple and rewarding. It takes only a few ingredients and a short amount of time to prepare a flavorful sauce that will enhance your homemade pizza. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy the rich taste of fresh, homemade pizza sauce.