A great pizza starts with a great sauce. This homemade pizza sauce is rich, balanced, and bursting with classic Italian flavor—made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in minutes. No cooking required, yet it delivers that bold, pizzeria-style taste you crave.
Why This Pizza Sauce Works
Fast & Foolproof – Ready in under 10 minutes
No Cooking Needed – Fresh tomato flavor shines
Perfect Consistency – Not watery, not too thick
Highly Customizable – Adjust herbs, garlic, or heat
Ingredients
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
This homemade pizza sauce proves that simple really is better. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect foundation for homemade pizza nights, weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests.
OTHER RECIPES
Pizza Sauce Recipe Ingredients:
* 1 clove garlic, mashed and minced
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
* 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* 1/8 teaspoon pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon oregano
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* dash red pepper, optional
PIZZA SAUCE RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine all ingredients. Makes about 1 1/2 cups, enough for 2 pizzas.
italian-pizza-sauce-recipe.
There’s nothing like homemade pizza, and the secret to a great pizza isn’t just the dough—it’s the sauce! Our Simple Pizza Sauce is rich, flavorful, and easy enough to whip up in minutes. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or a loaded meat lover’s pizza, this sauce is the perfect base.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Sauce
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 10 minutes.
Versatile – Works for pizza, calzones, or even as a dipping sauce.
Fresh Flavor – Uses pantry staples for a natural, robust taste.
Customizable – Add herbs, spices, or heat to suit your taste.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together tomato sauce and tomato paste until smooth.
Season the Sauce: Add oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully combined.
Add Olive Oil: Drizzle in olive oil and mix thoroughly. This adds richness and a silky texture.
Taste & Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning to preference. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Use or Store: Spread directly on pizza dough, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months!
Pro Tips for Perfect Pizza Sauce
No Cooking Required: This sauce can be used as-is for a fresh tomato flavor, or simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can be substituted for dried, but use triple the amount.
Sweetness: If your tomatoes are very acidic, add a little more sugar to balance.
Batch Prep: Make a double batch and freeze in portions for quick weeknight pizzas.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
Whether you’re a beginner or a pizza pro, this simple pizza sauce is foolproof. It’s fast, flavorful, and keeps your pizza nights stress-free. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just pure, saucy goodness.
½ cup vegetable oil (or olive oil for richer flavor)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½–1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp oregano
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Warm the oil:
Heat the oil in a small saucepan over low heat until warm (not sizzling).
Add spices:
Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, oregano, and cayenne.
Gently cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices (do not brown the garlic).
Remove from heat:
Stir in lime juice, vinegar, cilantro (if using), salt, and pepper.
Cool & serve:
Let it rest 10 minutes. Use warm, or store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Flavor Notes
Smoky ✔
Slightly tangy ✔
Mild-to-medium heat ✔
Garlic-rich ✔
Works well as a finishing drizzle, marinade, or dip mixed with sour cream.
1. Puree ingredients in a blender and store in a small covered jar.
2. Brush oil sauces on pizza dough, sprinkle on desired cheese, and then toppings.
3. Cook just like sauced pizzas, however they may take just a 1-2 minutes less time until
done.
The pizza sauce recipe is ready....
italian-pizza-sauce-recipe
Mix with tomato sauce for a garlic-boosted hybrid sauce.
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ANOTHER RECIPES
nice Pizza sauce recipe to try !
Pizza Sauce Ingredients
* 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic
Pizza Sauce Instructions
1. Puree ingredients in a blender and store in a small covered jar.
2. Brush oil sauces on pizza dough, sprinkle on desired cheese, and then toppings.
3. Cook just like sauced pizzas, however they may take just a 1-2 minutes less time until done. The Pizza sauce recipe is ready ~!
This sauce uses no cooking before baking. Real Italian pizza sauce is made fresh, then cooks on the pizza in the oven. It’s quick but incredibly flavorful.
Pour the crushed tomatoes into a bowl.
If using whole tomatoes, crush them by hand or with a fork until smooth with small chunks.
2. Add Seasonings
Stir in:
Olive oil
Garlic
Salt
Oregano
Pepper
Sugar (optional)
Fresh basil (optional)
Mix gently to combine.
3. Let It Rest
Let the sauce sit for 15–30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
No cooking needed — this is the traditional method.
4. Use on Pizza
Spread 2–3 tablespoons onto each pizza.
Don’t use too much — Italian pizza uses a thin layer of sauce.
The sauce will cook perfectly in the oven as the pizza bakes.
⭐ TIPS FOR AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FLAVOR
Use San Marzano tomatoes for the best taste.
Don’t overdo the garlic — Italian pizza sauce is simple and balanced.
Do not cook the sauce beforehand unless you’re making a thick American-style pizza.
Adjust salt after tasting the tomatoes; some brands are already salty.
Letting the sauce rest improves flavor.
🍕 VARIATIONS
Neapolitan Pizza Sauce
Just tomatoes, salt, basil, and a little olive oil.
(No garlic, no oregano.)
Thick American-Style Pizza Sauce
Simmer the sauce 20 minutes with:
Extra garlic
Onion powder
Oregano
Basil
Spicy Arrabbiata Pizza Sauce
Add red pepper flakes.
OTHER SOURCES
Ingredients:
1 can (500) gr. crushed tomato,
1 can (4 oz.) tomato paste,
1 tablespoon minced garlic,
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil,
2 teaspoons sugar,
1 tablespoon chopped onion,
1 tablespoon olive oil,
2 teaspoons dried oregano,
1/2 teaspoon chili powder,
salt and pepper to taste.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Saute the garlic and onion in the olive oil for 5 minutes and add the other ingredients except the basil. Simmer the pizza sauce for about 15-20 minutes.
Add the chopped basil 5 minutes before the sauce is ready.
If during the simmering, the sauce becomes too thick, add some water.
This pizza sauce recipe yields enough pizza sauce for about 4 medium pizzas.
Cooking tip: With the same ingredients you can prepare a pizza sauce without cooking.
Simply blend briskly all the ingredients with a stick blender and let the sauce sit for half hour before using, in order to blend flavors.
For the uncooked pizza sauce you can substitute the chopped onion with onion powder.
If you chose to make the cooked pizza sauce, let it cool down a little bit before using it, otherwise the top of the pizza will get cooked much faster than the bottom if the pizza sauce is applied when it is still hot....and the pizza sauce recipe is ready ! pizza-sauce-recipe.
The ultimate pizza sauce recipe is not only the simplest but also authentically Italian (Neapolitan). So, what are you waiting for? The next time you prepare pizza, this should be your go-to recipe!
I am astonished by the number of pizza sauce recipes I have encountered that are overly complex, featuring an extensive list of ingredients (including sugar) that bear no resemblance to any pizza sauce I have experienced in Italy!
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Since composing this post, I have become involved with the Greatest Tomatoes From Europe and I 🖤 San Marzano DOP campaigns, which aim to educate and inform consumers about the highest quality tomatoes and what to look for on the cans.
Some recipes require extensive cooking time before the sauce is applied to the pizza, but pizza sauce should never be cooked! A few of the images I have come across have left a lasting impression on me: red spackle paste? Allow me to assist you. (Updated: just read some of the reviews below. This recipe is transformative!) 😀
Typical Roman pizza in Rome.
Why is this the Best Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe?
THIS PIZZA SAUCE IS UNMATCHED BECAUSE IT IS STRAIGHTFORWARD AND UTILIZES ONLY PREMIUM INGREDIENTS.
I have also been traveling to Italy and savoring incredibly delicious pizza there since my birth. If you are not in search of a truly authentic, traditional Neapolitan and classic Italian pizza sauce, this recipe may not be suitable for you.
Gianfranco and I preparing pizza in Italy.
My cousin Gianfranco and I making pizza in Italy in our grandparents’ wood oven (circa 1985).
For instance, there are certain ingredients that you will never find in an authentic Italian and delectable pizza sauce recipe.
“This is one of the most genuine Napolitana pizza sauce recipes I have encountered. Many available online and on YouTube tend to incorporate excessive herbs and spices into the sauce and then overcook it…Thank you for this outstanding recipe.”
How to Choose the Ingredients for Your Pizza Sauce
Doesn’t this pizza sauce appear far more enticing than a dark red spackle-like sauce?
It is light, refreshing, and delectable, akin to numerous other genuine Italian dishes! If you prefer to avoid chunks of tomato or seeds, simply opt for a smooth purée or passata. (You may also purée whole or chunky tomatoes to achieve a smooth consistency.)
Are you in search of an authentic (simple) Italian spaghetti sauce?
What Ingredients Are Included in the Finest Sauce Recipe?
The birthplace of pizza is Naples, so why not utilize the finest pizza sauce recipe from that region to create your pizza at home? Since most of us do not reside in Naples, I will provide guidance on how to prepare the best pizza sauce in your kitchen without the pressure of adhering strictly to the "rules."
Did you know that the term Neapolitan refers to something that originates from Naples?
TOMATOES: while fresh tomatoes can be used, for assured quality and flavor, it is advisable to seek out "pomodoro pelato S.Marzano dell’Agro Sarnese-Nocerino D.O.P." Do not be intimidated by that lengthy name; you will recognize them as San Marzano tomatoes (which are indeed authentic with the
DOP designation). Look for the name along with the yellow and red Protected Designation of Origin, a European certification of quality.
whole peeled roma tomatoes in a bowl
Naturally, you may also use any high-quality canned tomatoes for excellent results, including pomodorini (cherry tomatoes) as depicted in the image of the can below. Exercise caution regarding what you deem to be "quality," so refer to this post that highlights several brands you can consider.
Italian tomatoes in a can
Notice that label at the bottom from Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana? That is a very positive indication.
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL: ensure that you select a premium quality oil (some may be blended with other oils.)
CHEESE: grated hard cheese, such as authentic Italian Parmigiano Reggiano (to be sprinkled on the pizza rather than incorporated into the sauce).
OREGANO: dried oregano is acceptable. Fresh herbs are not essential, except for basil.
Please note: if you wish to incorporate hot pepper flakes into the sauce, you may do so; however, in Italy, a spicy pizza is referred to as pizza alla diavola, which is garnished with a spicy dry cured sausage, resembling salami. This particular pizza happens to be one of my favorites!
Adding oil to pizza sauce
Selecting Ingredients: What to Avoid
Let us discuss the ingredients that you should NOT utilize if you desire optimal results.
Tomatoes of inferior quality, such as those that are tasteless, acidic, and/or sour, whether they are fresh or canned, will ruin your pizza. For a more detailed explanation regarding the differences in canned tomatoes from Europe, please refer to this fusilli pasta recipe. Most importantly, be cautious of cans labeled "San Marzano" that are not DOP or sourced from the specific region of Naples (or even Italy)!
Tomato paste should never come into contact with pizza dough in any form. The majority of individuals do not use tomato paste correctly or in the manner intended by Italians.
Sugar, in any form, is entirely unnecessary when utilizing high-quality, non-acidic, flavorful canned or fresh tomatoes.
The term "Italian Seasoning" is a non-Italian invention. It does not exist in Italy and, therefore, has no place in any authentic Italian dish, including pizza.
Garlic powder or garlic salt is simply unacceptable. (This also applies to onion or other powders.)
Tips for Making this Recipe & Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Pizza Sauce from Pasta Sauce?
The primary distinction is that pizza sauce is raw, while pasta sauce is cooked. In the region where my mother hails from, oregano is designated for pizza sauce, not pasta sauce. Furthermore, do not be misled into thinking that either sauce should be "thick" or "heavy." If your pizza sauce turns out thick, you are not preparing anything that resembles Italian cuisine.
I am merely sharing my authentic (quick) Italian tomato sauce recipe for pasta. Someone mistakenly believed this was a photo of me preparing pizza sauce, hence my detailed explanation.
How can one prepare Italian pizza sauce from scratch?
It is quite simple: procure the finest ingredients and adhere to my recipe outlined below! Here is my original pizza dough recipe, which is a no-knead, easy overnight dough; however, a more authentic and enhanced pizza dough recipe can be located here.
Is it Possible to Prepare Pizza Sauce in Advance?
Indeed, simply store it in the refrigerator if you do not intend to use it immediately. It will remain fresh in the fridge for two to three days until you are ready for pizza night! Utilize it with this no-knead pizza dough.
Pizza in Santa Maria di Castellabate (not far from Naples) 2019.
Absolutely not! This is the devil’s pizza sauce if you attempt this! Tomato paste has no rightful place on a pizza or within a pizza sauce. I simply cannot comprehend how Italian cuisine has become so misinterpreted and fragmented in the US and UK (primarily).
Tomato paste is utilized as a thickening agent when dealing with excessively watery tomatoes, or to impart some tomato flavor to a soup, but it should never serve as a base for pizza sauce, nor should it be included in a pizza sauce. The flavor and texture are the primary reasons for avoiding the paste. Conduct a taste test if you doubt my assertion.
Can Pizza Sauce Be Frozen?
Yes! If you intend to store it for longer than two or three days, place the pizza sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze it. It should remain viable for approximately a month in the freezer, but it is advisable to use it before that time.
Baking a Delectable Pizza Using this Recipe
This is the aspect over which we have the least control when crafting a truly excellent Italian pizza: the oven. We can always invest in a pizza stone, which is beneficial, but the inability to achieve an oven temperature exceeding 500 degrees Fahrenheit presents the greatest challenge. Pizza requires an extremely hot oven, ideally above 700 degrees F.
Without the need to purchase a professional pizza oven, I have discovered that an affordable countertop pizza maker serves as the next best alternative. I am quite fond of mine, which can reach temperatures exceeding 600 degrees Fahrenheit! Although the Petite Pizzeria model I own has been discontinued, the Chef di Cucina Pizza Maker appears nearly identical and has received excellent reviews.
My family, including my mother, typically uses a pizza sauce known as marinara pizza. There seems to be some confusion among Americans and Brits regarding the definition of marinara sauce. A marinara pizza sauce contains garlic and oregano; however, these ingredients are excluded in a Margherita pizza.
Notes
Ideally, use pomodoro pelato S.Marzano dell’Agro Sarnese-Nocerino D.O.P. THIS IS THE MOST CRUCIAL INGREDIENT—avoid using tomatoes of inferior quality.
Explore my Italian pantry for the finest ingredients.
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