Name: Italian Pizza Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ cup diced onion; 1 cup diced green bell pepper; 1-2 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or sauce/puree); 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)

This Italian Pizza Sauce is a simple yet flavorful base for all your homemade pizzas. Made with fresh ingredients and simmered to perfection, it’s a delicious alternative to store-bought sauces. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a versatile sauce that can be used for pizzas, dipping, or even pasta dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: This sauce is made with fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a bright and vibrant flavor that complements any pizza topping.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this sauce is a breeze to prepare.
Versatile: Use it for classic pizzas, dipping sauces, or even as a base for pasta dishes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Pizza Sauce:

Olive oil: Or your preferred cooking oil, for sautéing the vegetables.
Onion: Diced, for flavor and texture.
Green bell pepper: Diced, adds sweetness and a touch of freshness.
Garlic: Minced or pressed, for aromatic depth.
Crushed tomatoes: You can also use tomato sauce or puree if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Fresh oregano and basil: Adds a classic Italian flavor. You can substitute with dried herbs if needed.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Italian Pizza Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. If the vegetables start to fry or stick, add a little water to the pot to help them steam.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce or puree), and add the fresh oregano and basil (or dried herbs).

Step 3: Simmer and Finish

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can puree it using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Otherwise, leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t worry about perfect cuts: The vegetables will cook down and meld into the sauce, so don’t worry about getting perfect cuts.
Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer time to reduce the liquid. If you want a thinner sauce, add a little water or broth.
Customize the flavor: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as red pepper flakes for heat, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

How to Serve Italian Pizza Sauce

Pizza: This sauce is perfect for spreading on homemade pizza crusts before adding your favorite toppings.
Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, pizza crusts, or even mozzarella sticks.
Pasta Sauce: This sauce can also be used as a simple and flavorful pasta sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Freezing

Freeze the sauce in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. It’s helpful to freeze it in smaller portions for easier use later.

FAQs

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but the sauce will have a chunkier texture.

Can I omit the oil?
Yes, you can omit the oil if you prefer, but it adds richness and flavor to the sauce.

Can I make this sauce in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a diced chili pepper to the sauce while simmering.

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and versatile recipe for Italian Pizza Sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!