Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

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I’ve tested dozens of pizza sauces over the years, and nothing has stuck with my family and friends quite like this Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce. It’s bold, rich, and packed with layers of flavor that taste like they came straight out of a brick oven pizzeria. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight pizza or impressing guests with homemade dough and toppings, this sauce is your secret weapon.

What I love most about this sauce is how simple it is to prepare without sacrificing taste. With just a handful of pantry staples and no need to simmer for hours, it comes together in under 15 minutes. Plus, it clings perfectly to the dough without being too thick or too watery. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll find yourself making in double batches—just so you always have some ready to go.

Why You’ll Love This Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

• It’s quick: No long simmering—just blend and heat.
• Made from pantry staples.
• Balanced flavor: tangy, sweet, savory, and herby.
• Freezer-friendly for meal prep.
• Tastes like restaurant-quality pizza.

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What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use?

I recommend using crushed San Marzano tomatoes or high-quality canned whole tomatoes that you crush by hand or in a blender. These varieties have the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that forms the backbone of a good pizza sauce. Avoid tomato purée or overly processed sauces, which can taste metallic or too concentrated.

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Options for Substitutions

• Tomatoes: If you can’t find San Marzano tomatoes, use any good-quality canned plum or Roma tomatoes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Oregano & Basil: Fresh herbs can be subbed for dried—just triple the amount.
• Sugar: Swap with honey or skip it entirely if your tomatoes are naturally sweet.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a nice kick. Adjust to taste or omit if serving kids.

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Ingredients for This Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

• Canned San Marzano Tomatoes – These tomatoes bring a natural sweetness and low acidity that creates the perfect base for pizza sauce. Their rich texture and flavor set the tone for the whole sauce.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and herbs, it adds richness and enhances the sauce’s mouthfeel.
• Garlic (minced) – Essential for that classic Italian depth of flavor. Garlic infuses the oil and brings warmth to the entire sauce.
• Dried Oregano – This herb is a must for authentic pizza flavor. It lends an earthy, slightly bitter note that balances the tomato’s sweetness.
• Dried Basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic profile and complements the oregano.
• Salt – Brings out all the other flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Black Pepper – Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• Sugar – Just a pinch helps cut through the acidity of the tomatoes. Optional if your tomatoes are naturally sweet.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who like a little kick, this brings a subtle background heat.

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Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. It doesn’t need to sizzle—just enough to bloom the herbs and garlic. This step creates a flavorful base.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic to the warm oil and stir gently for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown. Then stir in the dried oregano and basil, allowing the herbs to infuse their flavor into the oil.

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Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Pour in your canned San Marzano tomatoes. If using whole tomatoes, crush them by hand before adding, or use a hand blender to break them down in the pot. Stir to combine everything well.

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Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Let everything simmer gently over low heat for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly but still spread easily.

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Step 5: Blend for Smoothness (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or standard blender to achieve the desired consistency. Some pizza lovers prefer it chunky—this step is entirely up to your preference.

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Step 6: Cool and Store

Remove from heat and allow to cool before using on your pizza dough. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or frozen for future use.

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How Long to Prepare the Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce

Making this sauce is a breeze when it comes to time. The actual prep involves very little hands-on work, and the flavors come together quickly.

• Prep Time: Roughly 5 minutes to mince the garlic and gather ingredients.
• Cook Time: 10 to 15 minutes to bring all the flavors together on the stove.

That means you can have this sauce ready in just 15–20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute pizza cravings.

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Tips for Perfect Pizza Sauce

• Use the best-quality canned tomatoes you can find—this is the heart of your sauce.
• Don’t rush the garlic. Let it gently infuse the oil without browning.
• Taste as you go. Tomatoes vary in sweetness and acidity, so tweak the salt and sugar to balance it out.
• If freezing, store in small portions so you only thaw what you need.
• A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of onion powder can add depth if you want to elevate the flavor further.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Burning the garlic: It turns bitter fast, so keep the heat low.
• Overcooking the sauce: It can become too thick or lose its freshness if simmered too long.
• Skipping the taste test: Always adjust seasonings based on your tomatoes and personal preference.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: They can ruin the entire batch.
• Blending too hot: If you blend the sauce right off the stove, the steam can cause pressure—always let it cool slightly first.

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What to Serve With Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce?

1. Homemade Pizza Dough

The obvious pairing—spread it on fresh dough and layer with your favorite toppings.

2. Mozzarella Sticks

Use it as a dip for crispy, cheesy sticks for an appetizer or snack.

3. Garlic Knots

Perfect for dipping—this sauce is a game-changer for buttery, garlicky knots.

4. Pasta

Toss it with cooked pasta for a quick, tangy red sauce dinner.

5. Stuffed Peppers

Mix with rice and ground meat for a tomato-rich filling.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight jar or container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: This sauce freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or silicone trays for easy thawing. It lasts up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or gently reheat on the stove.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per 1/4 Cup Serving)

• Calories: 60
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this pizza sauce last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just portion it before freezing for convenience.

Is this sauce good for pasta too?

Absolutely. It’s versatile and works well on pasta, stuffed shells, and even meatball subs.

Do I need to cook the sauce if using on pizza?

Yes, a quick simmer enhances the flavor. But if you’re really in a hurry, it can be used raw—just expect a slightly fresher, brighter tomato taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. This sauce is great for batch cooking. Just adjust your pot size and storage containers.

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Conclusion

This Fan Favorite Pizza Sauce is everything I love in a homemade staple: simple, quick, deeply flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It transforms even the most basic pizza night into something special and memorable. With ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen and just a little bit of love on the stovetop, you’ll never reach for the store-bought jar again. Whether you use it on pizza, pasta, or as a dip, this sauce is bound to become a regular in your kitchen.

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