The perfect pizza starts with a foundation that can make or break the final product. A well-crafted pizza sauce is the soul of any great pizza, offering a rich and robust flavor that complements the toppings and dough. This Pizza Sauce Recipe provides an ideal base for creating mouthwatering pizzas in the comfort of your home, with a balance of tangy tomato, aromatic herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning.

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Ingredients Overview

Creating the perfect pizza sauce begins with the right ingredients. Each component in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering a flavor profile that is both complex and harmonious. Tomato paste and tomato sauce form the foundation, offering a deep, rich tomato flavor that is both concentrated and smooth. These ingredients are complemented by a blend of dried oregano and Italian seasoning, which provide the signature herbal notes that define traditional pizza sauce.

To elevate the sauce further, garlic powder and onion powder are added, infusing the mixture with subtle undertones of savory depth. Garlic salt enhances the overall seasoning, ensuring that the sauce is perfectly balanced in flavor. Freshly ground black pepper introduces a slight hint of heat, while a touch of sugar is used to counterbalance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded taste that lingers on the palate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To create this pizza sauce, start by thoroughly combining the tomato paste and tomato sauce in a medium-sized bowl. This step is essential in achieving a smooth and consistent base for your sauce, where the concentrated tomato flavor melds seamlessly with the smoother texture of the sauce. Once these ingredients are well-blended, it’s time to incorporate the herbs and spices.

Gradually add the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, garlic salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar to the tomato mixture. Stir continuously as you add these ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. This method ensures that every bite of your pizza will be infused with the rich and aromatic flavors that make this sauce exceptional.

After mixing, take a moment to taste the sauce. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Whether you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce or one with a more pronounced herbaceous note, feel free to tweak the amounts of sugar or herbs. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, your sauce is ready to be spread generously over your pizza dough. The even distribution of the sauce on the dough is crucial for ensuring that each bite of your pizza is consistent in flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips

For a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of tomato sauce or simmer the sauce gently on low heat until it reaches your desired thickness.
To add freshness, consider incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before spreading the sauce on the dough.
This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze it in portions to have on hand whenever the pizza craving strikes.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This pizza sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of pizza dough recipes, from classic thin-crust to a hearty deep-dish. For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, consider pairing this sauce with a sourdough pizza crust for an added layer of complexity.

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. This sauce is versatile enough to complement a range of ingredients, whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil, or a more adventurous combination like spicy sausage and roasted red peppers. Additionally, consider serving your pizza with a simple side salad of mixed greens, lightly dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.

Customization Ideas

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce can give it a delightful kick. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the sugar slightly, or experiment with a touch of honey for a different kind of sweetness.

If you’re feeling creative, you can also experiment with the herb blend. While this recipe calls for oregano and Italian seasoning, you might try adding rosemary, thyme, or even a hint of fennel seed for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! If you have access to ripe, fresh tomatoes, you can use them to make this sauce. Simply blanch, peel, and purée the tomatoes before following the recipe as written.
How long does this sauce last in the refrigerator? This sauce will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to store it longer, freezing is a great option.
Can this sauce be used for other dishes besides pizza? Yes, this sauce is quite versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It works wonderfully as a base for pasta sauces, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or even as a topping for baked chicken.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin? If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit of water or additional tomato sauce. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, simmering it on low heat will help it reduce to the desired consistency.

Crafting a perfect pizza begins with a well-made sauce. This Pizza Sauce Recipe provides a robust, flavorful base that is sure to elevate your homemade pizzas to new heights. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a sauce that’s not only delicious but versatile enough to be a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or experimenting with new topping combinations, this sauce is the perfect starting point for any pizza creation.

Ingredients

6 ounces tomato paste
15 ounces tomato sauce
1-2 Tablespoons dried oregano, adjusted to taste
2 Tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sugar*
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ Tablespoon garlic salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the tomato paste with the tomato sauce until a smooth, uniform mixture is achieved. Gradually incorporate the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, garlic salt, black pepper, and sugar, ensuring that all the spices are evenly blended throughout the sauce.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Once perfected, spread the sauce generously over your preferred pizza dough, ensuring even coverage for a flavorful base.