A homemade pizza sauce can make all the difference between an average and an exceptional pizza. While store-bought sauces are convenient, they often lack the depth of flavor and freshness that a homemade sauce brings. This Quick Pizza Sauce recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious, requiring just a handful of pantry staples.
Unlike traditional slow-cooked pizza sauces, this version is uncooked, allowing the fresh flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to shine through. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, impromptu pizza nights, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Quick Pizza Sauce, including ingredients, step-by-step preparation, variations, and expert tips to ensure the best results.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Canned crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14-15 oz) – Provides a rich tomato base with a smooth yet slightly chunky texture.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons) – Adds depth and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic brings a robust aroma and taste.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon) – A classic Italian herb that adds an earthy, slightly bitter note.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon) – Brings a sweet and peppery balance to the sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Adds a hint of spice for those who like a little heat.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt (½ teaspoon, or to taste) – Enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon, or to taste) – Adds a subtle warmth.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon) – Gives a salty, umami boost.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh basil (2-3 leaves, chopped) – Elevates the freshness of the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Quick Pizza Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start, gather all your ingredients and have them ready. Mince the garlic, measure out the spices, and open the cans of tomatoes and tomato paste.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and olive oil. Stir until the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the crushed tomatoes.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Spices
Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the tomato mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 4: Let It Sit (Optional, but Recommended)
For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together. If you have time, chilling it in the fridge for an hour enhances the taste even more.
Step 5: Use or Store
Your Quick Pizza Sauce is now ready to use! Spread it on pizza dough, or store it for later use.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Sauce Fresh
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in small portions using a zip-top bag or ice cube tray for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.
Customization & Variations: Making It Your Own
1. Spicy Version
If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
2. Herb-Infused Sauce
For a deeper herbaceous flavor, add fresh oregano, rosemary, or thyme. You can also blend in a bit of pesto for a basil-forward taste.
3. Creamy Pizza Sauce
Mix in ¼ cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese for a rich and creamy twist.
4. Smoky BBQ Pizza Sauce
Blend in a tablespoon of BBQ sauce and a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky, tangy variation.
5. Extra Chunky Sauce
Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Serving Suggestions: Best Ways to Use Quick Pizza Sauce
While this sauce is perfect for traditional pizza, it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Margherita Pizza – Spread it on pizza dough, top with mozzarella and fresh basil, then bake.
- Pepperoni Pizza – Layer with pepperoni slices and plenty of cheese for a classic favorite.
- Garlic Bread Dip – Serve as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or breadsticks.
- Pasta Sauce Alternative – Toss it with cooked pasta and grated Parmesan for a quick meal.
- Meatball Subs – Use as a base sauce for delicious homemade meatball sandwiches.
- Eggplant Parmesan – Layer between breaded and fried eggplant slices for a flavorful Italian dish.
Expert Tips for the Best Quick Pizza Sauce
1. Use Quality Tomatoes
The flavor of your sauce depends on the tomatoes you use. Opt for San Marzano canned tomatoes for the best taste.
2. Don’t Overdo the Sugar
Tomatoes are naturally sweet, so add sugar only if needed to balance acidity.
3. Let the Flavors Marinate
Even though this is a “quick” sauce, letting it sit for 15-20 minutes enhances the flavor.
4. Keep It Simple
Avoid adding too many extra ingredients—simplicity is key for a classic pizza sauce.
5. Adjust to Taste
Taste the sauce before using it and adjust seasonings if needed.
Final Thoughts: Why This Quick Pizza Sauce is a Game-Changer
Making homemade Quick Pizza Sauce is incredibly easy, and the result is a fresh, vibrant, and well-balanced sauce that elevates any pizza. With just a few basic ingredients and no cooking required, you’ll have a delicious sauce ready in minutes. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita pizza, a spicy pepperoni pie, or a simple dipping sauce for breadsticks, this recipe is a must-have in your collection.
Quick Pizza Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pizza Sauce:
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all ingredients and measure them precisely. If using whole canned tomatoes, blend them until smooth.
Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until fully incorporated.
Taste & Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. If it's too tangy, add a pinch more sugar; if too thick, add a tablespoon of water.
Use or Store
Your pizza sauce is ready to use! Spread it onto pizza dough, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1.5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210.46kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.02g16%
- Saturated Fat 1.41g8%
- Sodium 786.73mg33%
- Potassium 1155.8mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 30.05g11%
- Dietary Fiber 7.35g30%
- Sugars 17.5g
- Protein 6.42g13%
- Vitamin A 52.34 IU
- Vitamin C 32.69 mg
- Calcium 130.56 mg
- Iron 5.26 mg
- Vitamin E 6.18 IU
- Vitamin K 33.01 mcg
- Thiamin 0.25 mg
- Riboflavin 0.2 mg
- Niacin 4.43 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.54 mg
- Folate 45.36 mcg
- Phosphorus 126.07 mg
- Magnesium 75.66 mg
- Zinc 1.05 mg
* Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate based on available ingredients and serving sizes. Variations in ingredients and portion sizes may affect the actual values. Always consult a nutritionist or healthcare provider for specific dietary advice.
Note
- Make it chunkier: Use diced tomatoes instead of crushed.
- For a deeper flavor: Let the sauce sit for 30 minutes before using.
- No tomato paste? Use an extra ¼ cup of crushed tomatoes and simmer the sauce for a few minutes to thicken.
- Make it fresh: Replace dried herbs with fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.
- Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
