Pizza lovers know that the heart of a great pizza lies not just in the crust or toppings, but in the sauce. A perfectly seasoned, rich, and tangy pizza sauce can elevate your pie from good to unforgettable. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from the history and ingredients of Sauce pizza to detailed recipes, tips, and common FAQs.

What Is Pizza Sauce?

Sauce pizza is a tomato-based condiment typically spread directly over pizza dough before baking. It’s usually thicker and more seasoned than pasta sauce, designed to hold up under high heat and complement cheese and toppings without overwhelming them.

A Brief History

Modern pizza sauce draws its roots from Italian culinary traditions, particularly those associated with southern Italy. While variations of flatbreads with toppings have existed for centuries, the concept of using a seasoned tomato base became widely popular in Italy during the late 1700s and early 1800s. As tomatoes gained acceptance in European cuisine, cooks in southern Italian regions began crafting early versions of what we now know as pizza sauce.

Ingredients (With Measurements)

To make a classic red Sauce pizza, you’ll need:

Ingredients:

Whole peeled tomatoes (canned or fresh) – 1 can (28 oz) or 6-8 fresh Roma tomatoes
Garlic cloves – 3, minced
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
Crushed red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Sugar – 1 teaspoon (balances acidity, optional)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

Optional additions:

Onion – ½ small, finely chopped
Parmesan cheese – 2 tablespoons (for extra umami)
Anchovy paste – ½ teaspoon (for depth, optional)

Types of Sauce

1. Classic Red Sauce (Tomato-Based)

Most commonly used, this sauce can be cooked or uncooked, depending on preference.

No-cook sauces retain tomato freshness and are used in Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Cooked sauces develop a deeper, richer flavor, perfect for thick crusts.

2. White Pizza Sauce

Usually, a creamy garlic Alfredo sauce is made from:

Butter (2 tbsp)
Flour (2 tbsp)
Milk (1 cup)
Minced garlic (2 cloves)
Parmesan (½ cup)
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Pesto Sauce

A basil-forward green sauce made from:

Fresh basil (2 cups)
Pine nuts (¼ cup)
Garlic (2 cloves)
Parmesan (½ cup)
Olive oil (½ cup)

4. BBQ Sauce

This smoky, zesty alternative offers a bold flavor contrast. It’s a popular base for pizzas topped with grilled or roasted meats such as pulled chicken, pepperoni, or crispy bacon.

5. Vegan/Dairy-Free Options

Use olive oil, garlic, herbs, and blended roasted red peppers or tomatoes.

How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce

No-Cook Pizza Sauce Recipe

Perfect for Neapolitan-style pizza.

Ingredients:

Crushed San Marzano tomatoes – 1 can (28 oz)
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Dried oregano – ½ tsp
Fresh basil – 5 leaves, chopped

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
Blend to desired texture, either slightly chunky or fully smooth.
You can use the sauce right away or refrigerate it in an airtight container for several days.

Cooked Pizza Sauce Recipe

Great for deeper flavors.

Ingredients:

Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Onion – ½, finely diced
Garlic – 3 cloves
Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 oz)
Basil, oregano, salt, pepper – to taste

Instructions:

Warm the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and gently cook the onion and garlic until they become translucent and aromatic.
Incorporate the tomato paste and continue stirring for another 60 seconds to release its flavor.
Add crushed tomatoes and seasonings. Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend if a smooth texture is preferred.

Pizza Sauce vs. Pasta Sauce

Though similar, they differ in:

Feature	Pizza Sauce	Pasta Sauce
Texture	Thicker	Thinner
Cooking Method	Usually uncooked	Usually cooked
Flavor	More concentrated, spiced	Milder, more balanced

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Pizza Sauce

Feature	Homemade	Store-Bought
Taste	Fresh, customizable	Convenient, consistent
Ingredients	No preservatives	Often includes stabilizers
Shelf life	Short (5–7 days)	Long (months unopened)

Best-rated store-bought sauces:

Rao’s Homemade Pizza Sauce
Don Pepino
Muir Glen Organic

Pro Tips for Perfect Pizza Sauce

Use San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
Add sugar only if the tomatoes are too acidic.
Simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
Use a fine mesh sieve to remove excess water if the sauce is too runny.
Taste before using—adjust salt, sugar, or herbs as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-seasoning (especially oregano and garlic)
Using watery tomatoes without draining
Overcooking (can make sauce bitter)
Not blending enough if a smooth texture is desired

Best Sauce Pairings

Pizza Style	Sauce Recommendation
Neapolitan	No-cook red sauce
New York Style	Cooked tomato sauce
White Pizza	Garlic Alfredo sauce
Veggie Pizza	Basil pesto or tomato base
BBQ Chicken Pizza	BBQ sauce

FAQs About

What is pizza sauce made of?

It’s primarily composed of blended tomatoes, garlic, dried herbs like oregano and basil, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. Some versions include sugar or onion for added balance.

Can I use pasta sauce instead of pizza sauce?

You can, but it may be too watery or sweet. Pizza sauce is more concentrated.

Do you cook pizza sauce before putting it on pizza?

Not always. Some recipes call for uncooked sauce, especially Neapolitan-style.

What’s the best tomato for pizza sauce?

San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their flavor and low acidity.

Is marinara the same as pizza sauce?

No. Marinara is a cooked pasta sauce with onions and more liquid.

Can pizza sauce be used for other recipes?

Yes! Use it as a dip, in calzones, or on meatball subs.

How long does homemade pizza sauce last?

Properly stored in the refrigerator, homemade pizza sauce stays fresh for around 4 to 6 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 to 3 months without losing flavor.

Conclusion

Pizza sauce is more than just a condiment—it’s a foundation of flavor. Whether you’re going for a traditional Neapolitan pie or a bold BBQ twist, the right sauce makes all the difference. With the tips and recipes above, you’re equipped to make your sauce from scratch and take your homemade pizza to the next level.

If you’re a fan of chocolate desserts, try this chocolate-covered-marshmallow-cookies recipe for a rich and fluffy treat.

Pizza Sauce: 6 Ingredients That Make It Taste Amazing

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