There’s a delightful comfort in creating something homemade, and my Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce is the perfect way to bring that joy right into your kitchen. The moment you start sautéing garlic in olive oil, your senses will be captivated by the familiar aroma that fills the air, transporting you to a cozy pizzeria. This sauce boasts a rich, bold flavor that perfectly complements any crust—whether you’re leaning toward a robust thin crust or a hearty deep dish.

As I gradually mix in sun-kissed crushed tomatoes and a blend of aromatic herbs, I can’t help but smile at how simple it is to make this restaurant-quality sauce at home. It’s vegetarian, incredibly easy to whip up, and even better, it freezes beautifully for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss. So gather your ingredients, and let’s craft a sauce that will have your family begging for seconds—because homemade just tastes better!

Why is this Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce adored?

Simplicity shines through in this homemade pizza sauce that even beginners can master. Robust flavor comes from a delightful mix of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a taste that rivals any pizzeria. Versatile base for various pizza styles, it adapts beautifully to your favorite crust. Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep, you can whip up a batch and enjoy it anytime. Experience the joy of homemade goodness that turns pizza night into a treasured family tradition!

Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Crushed Tomatoes – This is the base of the sauce and adds rich depth; opt for San Marzano or fire-roasted for enhanced flavor.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce; no substitutions, but reducing the amount can lighten the taste.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in cooking the garlic; vegetable oil can be used as an alternative if needed.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor and depth; always prefer fresh garlic for the best outcome.
• Dried Oregano – Adds herbal complexity to the sauce; Italian seasoning can serve as a substitute if you run out.
• Dried Basil – Enhances the Italian flavor profile; fresh basil can be a great replacement, remembering to adjust the amount.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a kick of heat and complexity; feel free to adjust the quantity or omit for a milder flavor.
• Salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; kosher salt is ideal for precise seasoning control.
• Sugar – Balances acidity and enhances sweetness; omit if you prefer, but adjust the salt to taste.
• Onion Powder – Adds savory depth to the sauce; finely chopped onions can replace this, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

This easy-to-love sauce encapsulates the essence of the ultimate fan favorite pizza sauce that your family will adore!

How to Make Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

Heat oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This will create a rich base for your sauce.
Sauté garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma of the garlic should fill your kitchen with warmth!
Combine tomatoes: Stir in 28 oz of crushed tomatoes along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste until fully combined. The mixture will begin to take on a rich, vibrant color as it comes together.
Add spices: Mix in dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Ensure everything is well combined—a symphony of flavors is forming!
Simmer the sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to thicken the sauce and concentrate the flavors.
Blend to desired texture (optional): If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender at this point. Blend until you achieve your desired texture!
Cool and store: Allow the sauce to cool completely before pouring it into jars or containers. This ensures it keeps well for your next pizza night!

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for the Best Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano or fire-roasted crushed tomatoes for depth of flavor. They will elevate your ultimate fan favorite pizza sauce significantly.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer uncovered for at least 25 minutes helps thicken and concentrate the flavors. Avoid the common mistake of skipping this step.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and sugar levels based on the acidity of your tomatoes, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor.
Cool Before Storing: Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents condensation, which can spoil your sauce.
Perfect for Freezing: Portion the sauce into freezer bags or containers for easy meal prep. It keeps well for up to 3 months, ready to use anytime you crave pizza!

Make Ahead Options

These Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its rich flavor, let it cool completely before sealing, and always refrigerate promptly. For longer storage, feel free to freeze portions for up to 3 months—just ensure they’re in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring gently, and it’s just as delicious as the day it was made!

How to Store and Freeze Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to keep flavors fresh.

Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for when you need an easy meal.

Thawing: To use, thaw in the fridge overnight or gently reheat from frozen. Simply warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.

Reheating: If frozen, stir in a splash of water or reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency while reheating, enhancing the flavor of your ultimate fan favorite pizza sauce!

What to Serve with Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce?

Creating a delightful meal around this flavorful pizza sauce can be an adventure in taste and texture.

Classic Margherita Pizza: A simple pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and basil allows the sauce to shine as the star ingredient. Each bite feels like a taste of Italy!
Garlic Bread Sticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these make a perfect dipper for your fabulous sauce.
Cauliflower Crust Pizza: For a healthier twist, this gluten-free option pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce, adding a delicate balance of flavors.
Roasted Veggie Flatbread: Load up a flatbread with seasonal vegetables spread over the sauce for a colorful and nutritious option. It’s both satisfying and healthy.
Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze beautifully complement the sauce, creating a refreshing balance.
Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, enhances the flavors of both the sauce and any accompanying dishes seamlessly.
Dessert Option: End the meal with fresh fruit topped with a drizzle of honey—an easy, sweet finish to your Italian-inspired evening.

Elevate your next meal with these exciting pairings, and let the Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce take center stage!

Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this sauce to your taste buds!

Chunky Style: Swap crushed tomatoes for diced tomatoes for a fresh, chunky texture. This gives each bite a delightful pop of tomato goodness!
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried for a bright, vibrant flavor. Just be mindful of using less, as fresh herbs are more potent than dried ones.
Smoky Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a delicious smoky flavor. This unexpected depth will remind you of rustic outdoor cooking.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for an extra heat boost. This variation is perfect for those who love a fiery kick in their pizza!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the entire experience.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms while sautéing the garlic for added nutrition and flavor. They bring a nice texture and heartiness!
Herb Infusion: Infuse the olive oil with fresh herbs before sautéing the garlic. Simply heat the oil gently with some rosemary or thyme for aromatic richness!
No-Cook Option: For a fresh, raw sauce, blend together ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs until smooth. This is perfect for hot summer days when you want minimal cooking.

Feel empowered to adjust your sauce and create something uniquely delicious!

Ultimate Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using San Marzano or fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. They provide a rich depth that enhances your ultimate fan favorite pizza sauce. If you can’t find those, regular crushed tomatoes will work, but opt for quality brands to ensure a delicious taste.

How long can I store the pizza sauce in the fridge?
You can enjoy your sauce fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just make sure it has cooled completely before sealing, as this helps preserve its vibrant flavor.

Can I freeze this pizza sauce, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion the sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat from frozen on the stove. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade pizza sauce ready whenever you crave it!

What if the sauce turns out too watery?
No worries! If you find your sauce is too watery after simmering, simply continue to simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to allow more liquid to evaporate. You can also add a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency once you reheat it; this will enhance the flavor of your ultimate fan favorite pizza sauce!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
This pizza sauce is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting any added cheese. If you or someone else has allergies, always check for those ingredients in any store-bought products you might use, like crushed tomatoes. For pets, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid sharing human food, particularly anything with garlic or onions, which can be harmful to dogs.

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