Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe: Better Than Store-Bought!
Introduction
This homemade pizza sauce recipe comes from Ashleigh Jaima Osborne, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer! The rich aroma of garlic, basil, and simmered tomatoes fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste. Once you try this flavorful, perfectly balanced sauce, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Why Homemade Pizza Sauce?
Store-bought pizza sauces are often packed with preservatives and lack the depth of flavor you can get from fresh ingredients. This homemade pizza sauce recipe is made with simple pantry staples, yet delivers an authentic, restaurant-quality taste. Plus, you get to control the seasoning, sweetness, and consistency to make it just the way you like it.
Ingredients
To make about 8 cups of this delicious homemade pizza sauce, you’ll need:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp oregano
- ¾ tsp dried basil
- ¾ tsp dried crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole tomatoes, including puree
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup dry red wine
- Small pinch of baking soda (to reduce acidity)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
2. Add the Herbs & Spices
Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper. Stir well to toast the spices slightly and release their full flavor.
3. Add the Tomatoes & Simmer
Pour in the whole tomatoes with their puree, breaking them apart with a spoon. Stir in the tomato sauce and red wine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce Acidity & Blend
Add a small pinch of baking soda—this helps cut the acidity from the tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to purée the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste & Adjust
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Want more spice? Add extra red pepper flakes. Need a little sweetness? A pinch of sugar can balance out the flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Pizza Sauce
- Use quality tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended for their rich, sweet flavor.
- Let it rest – If time allows, let the sauce sit for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
- Store & freeze – This sauce keeps in the fridge for up to a week and freezes beautifully for months.
How to Use Homemade Pizza Sauce
This sauce isn’t just for pizza! Try it as a base for:
- Pasta sauces
- Dipping sauce for breadsticks
- Homemade lasagna
- Meatball subs
Conclusion
A huge thank you to Ashleigh Jaima Osborne for sharing this homemade pizza sauce recipe—it’s truly next-level delicious! Making your own sauce is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Whether you’re crafting the perfect homemade pizza or just looking for a flavorful tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
