The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
There’s something magical about homemade pizza sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This recipe for The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce will elevate your pizza nights to a whole new level. With just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, you can whip up this delicious sauce that will have your family and friends begging for more. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This isn’t just any pizza sauce; it’s a game changer. The combination of fresh garlic, aromatic basil, and sweet crushed tomatoes creates a balance that enhances your pizza without overpowering it. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use it for traditional pizzas, pasta dishes, or even as a dipping sauce for your favorite appetizers. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought sauces again!
Ingredient Notes
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly pressed or minced garlic infuses the sauce with a wonderful aroma.
- Crushed Tomatoes: A big can (128-ounce) of crushed tomatoes serves as the base. Look for options with no added sugar or preservatives.
- Fresh Basil: If you have it on hand, fresh basil leaves will give your sauce a vibrant taste. If not, dried basil is a great substitute.
- Sugar: Just a pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large Pot: For simmering your sauce.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing.
- Mesh Splatter Screen (optional but nice to have): This will help keep your stovetop clean while the sauce simmers.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure your ingredients accurately.
Step-by-Step: The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the pressed or minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add Crushed Tomatoes
Carefully pour in the entire can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine it with the garlic and oil.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add the fresh basil leaves (or dried basil) and sugar to the pot. Stir to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. If using, cover the pot with a mesh splatter screen to prevent splatters while allowing steam to escape. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
After 30 minutes, taste the sauce. If it needs more seasoning, feel free to add salt, pepper, or more sugar to balance the acidity.
No-Store Runs Needed
- Most ingredients are pantry staples.
- Fresh basil can often be substituted with dried herbs.
- You can easily adjust the recipe based on what you have available.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t skip the garlic; it’s essential for flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Don’t ignore the simmering step; it’s crucial for developing rich flavors.
Save It for Later
You can store your homemade pizza sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as the sauce will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it gently on the stove.
Popular Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can blanch, peel, and crush them before adding them to the sauce. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make my sauce spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the garlic at the beginning.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!
What to Make After This
Final Bite
There you have it—the secret to The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce. With its fresh ingredients and robust flavors, this sauce is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. It’s simple, quick to make, and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. So next time you’re planning a pizza night, remember this recipe, and prepare to impress!
Now, gather your ingredients, get that pot on the stove, and let the delightful aroma of homemade pizza sauce fill your kitchen. Your pizza will thank you!
The Best Homemade Pizza Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute.
- Step 2: Sauté the Garlic. Add the pressed or minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Step 3: Add Crushed Tomatoes. Carefully pour in the entire can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine it with the garlic and oil.
- Step 4: Season the Sauce. Add the fresh basil leaves (or dried basil) and sugar to the pot. Stir to incorporate all the flavors.
- Step 5: Simmer. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. If using, cover the pot with a mesh splatter screen to prevent splatters while allowing steam to escape. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6: Taste and Adjust. After 30 minutes, taste the sauce. If it needs more seasoning, feel free to add salt, pepper, or more sugar to balance the acidity.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried herbs.
