Pizza nights just got a whole lot more exciting! There’s nothing quite like the perfect combination of flavors and textures that make up a delicious homemade pizza. And let’s be honest, it all starts with the sauce. While traditional tomato sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, there are countless variations out there to spice things up (pun intended). Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering pizza sauce recipes that cater to every taste.
From spicy arrabbiata to creamy garlic alfredo, sweet and tangy BBQ to smoky chipotle, each of these unique sauces is designed to elevate your pizza game. And the best part? You don’t have to be a master chef to create them! With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be whipping up like a pro in no time.
Stay tuned for our recipe rundown, featuring everything from classic tomato to innovative twists and turns. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
Classic Homemade Tomato Pizza Sauce
Create a flavorful base for your favorite pizzas with this simple recipe for homemade tomato pizza sauce. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and authentic Italian-style pizza in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before using on your favorite pizza.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pizza Sauce
This spicy sauce adds a bold kick to your pizzas, pasta dishes, or as a dipping sauce. This simple recipe combines the flavors of garlic, red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes for a flavorful and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Alfredo Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this rich and creamy garlic alfredo sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. This recipe is a game-changer for any pizza lover, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this sweet and tangy BBQ pizza sauce recipe! This unique blend of flavors combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the tanginess of apple cider vinegar, and the richness of tomato puree to create a one-of-a-kind sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the tomato puree, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If too sweet, add more apple cider vinegar. If not tangy enough, add more brown sugar.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Roasted Garlic and Herb Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful and aromatic sauce, perfect for topping your favorite pies. This roasted garlic and herb combination adds a depth of flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, crushed tomatoes, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting garlic), 10-15 seconds (blending)
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful and vibrant sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil.
2. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! This sauce is ready to use straight from the blender.
Smoky Chipotle Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this smoky and spicy chipotle sauce, perfect for topping your favorite pies.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Use this sauce as a base or add your favorite toppings like mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, or grilled chicken for a flavorful pizza experience!
Fresh Basil and Olive Oil Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this simple and flavorful sauce recipe that combines the brightness of fresh basil with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for topping your favorite pizza dough or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the basil is well-chopped.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the sauce is emulsified and has a creamy consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
– None! This sauce is best served at room temperature or chilled for up to 3 days.
Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Pizza Sauce
This sweet and savory pizza sauce combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, creating a unique and delicious accompaniment to your favorite pizzas.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before using as a pizza sauce.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including caramelization time)
White Wine and Mushroom Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this rich and flavorful sauce that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the crispness of white wine. Perfect for a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
7. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Pizza Sauce
This creamy, tangy sauce combines the bold flavors of buffalo wings and ranch dressing to create a unique and delicious topping for your next pizza night. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this addictive sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, ranch seasoning, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Truffle Oil and Parmesan Pizza Sauce
This rich and savory sauce is a game-changer for pizza enthusiasts. With the earthy flavor of truffle oil and the nutty taste of parmesan, this sauce will add depth and sophistication to your pizzas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the truffle oil and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful and aromatic sauce featuring roasted red peppers and crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and place the roasted flesh into a blender or food processor.
4. Add the feta cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (roasting time included)
Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this savory and aromatic sauce that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted green olives, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons Kalamata olive tapenade
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped olives, olive tapenade, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the olive mixture and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
6. Let cool to room temperature before using as a pizza sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Thai Peanut Satay Pizza Sauce
This creamy and aromatic pizza sauce combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a classic satay dish, perfect for topping your favorite pizzas or using as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Pumpkin and Sage Pizza Sauce
Add a seasonal twist to your pizza nights with this flavorful and aromatic sauce featuring roasted pumpkin and fragrant sage. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy movie nights, this recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted pumpkin, garlic, sage leaves, and crushed tomatoes. Blend until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None needed! This sauce is ready to use as is.
Avocado Lime Crema Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy, zesty sauce that combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed avocado, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Pesto and Ricotta Swirl Pizza Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy and flavorful sauce that combines the richness of ricotta with the bright, herby taste of pesto. Perfect for a unique twist on traditional pizza nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons basil pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and pesto. Mix until smooth.
2. Add olive oil and mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away. Simply spread it on your pizza dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake in the oven.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with these 18 delicious pizza sauce recipes! From classic tomato sauces to innovative flavors like buffalo ranch and truffle oil parmesan, there’s something for every taste. Try the spicy arrabbiata or smoky chipotle for a bold kick, or opt for sweeter options like caramelized onion and balsamic or pumpkin and sage. With ingredients ranging from fresh basil to roasted red peppers, these sauces will add excitement to your pizza nights. Whether you’re a meat-lover, veggie enthusiast, or just looking for something new, there’s a sauce here that’s sure to please.
