There’s something truly magical about pizza, isn’t there? It’s like a universal love language. And don’t even get me started on pizza sauce! My homemade pizza sauce recipe is not just easy to whip up; it’s packed with flavor that will elevate your pizza nights to new heights. I first tried making this sauce when I was a college student, trying to impress my friends with a “fancy” homemade pizza night. Spoiler alert: it worked! We’ve been perfecting this recipe together ever since, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
What I adore about this sauce is its versatility. You can slather it on your homemade pizza, dip your garlic bread in it, or even use it as a zesty pasta sauce in a pinch. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, using ingredients you probably already have on hand. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this deliciousness!
What’s in Homemade Pizza Sauce?
Canned Tomatoes: I love using crushed San Marzano tomatoes for their sweet, rich flavor, but really, any good-quality canned tomatoes will do. They’re the base of the sauce and really give it that luscious, saucy texture.
Olive Oil: A dash of extra-virgin olive oil adds a nice richness to the sauce. I recommend using good quality, as you’ll taste the difference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a warm, aromatic kick. Who can say no to that heavenly smell wafting through the kitchen?
Onion Powder: This one’s my secret weapon! It adds an extra layer of flavor without the hassle of chopping an onion. Win-win!
Dried Oregano: Oregano is a classic pizza herb. I love using a generous amount to really bring out that Italian feel.
Dried Basil: Fresh basil is great, but in this recipe, dried works perfectly. It’s the herb that reminds me of summer nights spent sipping wine and eating pizza on the patio.
Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch to enhance all those lovely flavors.
Is Homemade Pizza Sauce Good for You?
Absolutely! This pizza sauce is a healthier alternative to the store-bought varieties, which can often be loaded with sugars and preservatives. Let’s break it down:
Canned Tomatoes: Low in calories and high in vitamins C and K, canned tomatoes can boost your immune system and heart health. They’re also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its many health benefits.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants, olive oil can lower inflammation and may even help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Garlic: This little bulb packs quite the punch! It has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, and may even support heart health.
So, while you’re enjoying your homemade pizza, know that you’re indulging in a dish that’s not only thrilling to your taste buds but also wholesome.
Ingredients List
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or your preferred brand)
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Serves:** About 2-3 pizzas, depending on how saucy you like them!
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce?
1. **Prep the Tomatoes:** If you’d like, you can blend the crushed tomatoes slightly to achieve a smoother consistency, but I love leaving it a bit chunky for texture.
2. **Heat it Up:** In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Trust me, burnt garlic is a pizza sauce’s worst nightmare!
3. **Add the Tomatoes:** Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir them in. Allow everything to come to a gentle simmer.
4. **Season It:** Add the onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well, and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the time to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
5. **Cool & Store:** Once your sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully, remove it from heat. If you’re not using it immediately, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months!
Stretch Your Sauce: Tips for the Best Homemade Pizza Experience!
– **Fresh Herbs:** If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, feel free to swap out the dried versions for fresh ones. Just add them at the end of cooking to keep that vibrant flavor.
– **Spicy Kick:** For those who love a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the herbs.
– **Multi-Purpose:** This sauce isn’t just for pizza! Use it as a dip for mozzarella sticks or a topping for pasta. The possibilities are endless!
– **Storing Sauce:** I like to make a double batch and freeze some for those last-minute pizza cravings. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.
This homemade pizza sauce is one of those delightful recipes that I find myself gravitating toward time and again. I promise it’ll become a favorite in your household too! If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tweaks you made. Let’s share the love of pizza! 🍕
