âšď¸ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| URL | https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/ |
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-13 18:01:18 (2 hours ago) |
| First Indexed | 2018-05-05 08:35:28 (7 years ago) |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe - Budget Bytes |
| Meta Description | Use this Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe to make your own sauce at home in minutes with just a few pantry staples. Use now, or freeze for later! |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | Iâve made Homemade Pizza Sauce before, but I wanted one that was even
thicker
and
richer
because I had some BIG plans to dip things in it. Dipping sauces have to be really thick, or else they wonât hang on to whatever is being dunked in them. But I also love a good, thick sauce on my pizzas. A thick sauce gives all the flavor without making the dough soggy. And thatâs exactly what this recipe achieves.đ
Pin this recipe for later!
All recipes are rigorously tested in our
Nashville Test Kitchen
to ensure they are easy, affordable, and delicious.
âAbsolutely delicious!!! I have made this a few times now. I freeze this in 1/2 cup portions for Friday night pizza, love it!! I always have these ingredients on hand and it is so simple to make. Thank you for this recipe!!â
Kathy R
Super Easy Pizza Sauce Recipe
More often than not, store-bought pizza sauces can be watery, overly sweet, or justâŚmeh. But when you make it yourself? You can control EVERYTHING. The richness, the seasoning, the texture. And let me tell you, this sauce recipe is next-level. Itâs bold, thick, perfectly balanced, and honestly, so easy to make. Oh, and did I mention it makes a HUGE batch? Youâll have plenty to slather on pizzas, use as a dipping sauce, or even stash in the freezer. Because trust me, once you taste this, youâll want to use it all the time.
Cost
$3.41 recipe / $1.14 per cup
4.70
from
133
votes
Use this Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe to make your own sauce at home in minutes with just a few pantry staples. Use now, or freeze for later!
Step-by-step photos
can be seen below the recipe card.
â˘
2
Tbsp
olive oil
($0.44)
â˘
1
clove
garlic
(minced, $0.04)
â˘
1
28 oz. can
crushed tomatoes
($1.67)
â˘
1
6 oz. can
tomato paste
($0.94)
â˘
1/2
Tbsp
sugar
($0.01)
â˘
3/4
tsp
salt
($0.03)
â˘
1
tsp
dried basil
($0.10)
â˘
1/2
tsp
dried oregano
($0.05)
â˘
Freshly cracked black pepper
($0.08)
â˘
1
pinch
crushed red pepper
(optional, $0.05)
Add the olive oil and garlic to a sauce pot and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or just until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, some freshly cracked pepper (10-15 cranks of a pepper mill), and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Cover the pot, allow the pot to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 15 minutes minimum, or up to 30 minutes (I often let it simmer as I prepare my pizza dough).
See how we
calculate recipe costs here
.
To freeze this sauce, first cool it completely in the refrigerator, then transfer to quart-sized freezer bags or freezer-safe resealable containers and freeze until solid. Simply reheat over low heat in a sauce pot, with a lid to minimize evaporation, and stir often, until heated through.
Serving:
3
Cups
Calories:
157.17
kcal
(8%)
Carbohydrates:
33.13
g
(11%)
Protein:
7.03
g
(14%)
Fat:
2.6
g
(4%)
Sodium:
1200.1
mg
(52%)
Fiber:
7.83
g
(33%)
Percentages are of daily value.
How to Make Pizza Sauce Step-by-Step Photos
SautĂŠ the garlic:
SautĂŠ one clove of minced garlic (or two if you like things garlicky!) in 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat for one to two minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
Add ingredients:
Add one 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, one 6 oz. can tomato paste, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 3/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, some freshly cracked pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce pot.
Stir and simmer:
Stir the ingredients together, place a lid on top, then allow it to come up to a simmer. Once simmering, turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes minimum (I sometimes let it simmer longer while Iâm preparing whatever Iâm serving it with and the flavor just gets sweeter and deeper).
How to Use Homemade Pizza Sauce
This recipe makes three cups, which is enough for about 3 large pizzas or 12 dipping portions (and it freezes great!). Other than pizzas, one of my favorite ways to use it is for
pizzadillas
âI add cheese and toppings to a tortilla, warm it up, and use the sauce for dipping! Itâs also perfect with
stromboli
, giving that extra layer of flavor when paired with crispy dough. You can even use it to make our
stuffed bell peppers
or
zucchini boats recipe
! However, one of my absolute favorite dinners at the moment is my
baked pizza chicken
. Itâs gooey, cheesy, saucy, and always a win when made with this sauce recipe!
How to Store and Reheat
If this recipe makes more sauce than you need for one meal, go ahead and freeze the remainder of the sauce. I suggest using a quart-sized freezer bag. To reheat, just tear away the freezer bag and empty the frozen sauce into a small sauce pot. Reheat over low, stirring often, until it is heated through. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4-5 days. As for canning, I havenât personally tried to can this sauce, so I canât vouch for the results.
Our Homemade Pizza Sauce recipe was originally published 8/3/11. It was retested, reworked, and republished to be better than ever 2/28/25.
Posted in:
Dairy Free Recipes
,
Globally Inspired Recipes
,
Gluten free Recipes
,
Italian Inspired Recipes
,
Pizza Recipes
,
Quick Recipes
,
Recipes under $5
,
Sauce Recipes
,
Soy Free Recipes
,
Under $1.50 per serving
,
Vegan Recipes
,
Vegetarian Recipes
Beth Moncel
Iâm a food lover, number cruncher, and meticulous budgeter. I love science and art, and the way they come together when I cook. I love to create, problem solve, and learn new things. Making great food is my passion, my purpose, and my favorite thing to share with others.
More About Beth |
| Markdown | [Sign up](https://www.budgetbytes.com/join/) for access to our weekly meal plans
[Skip to content](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#main-content)
[](https://www.budgetbytes.com/)
[Sign up](https://www.budgetbytes.com/join/) for access to our weekly meal plans
[Sign Up](https://www.budgetbytes.com/join/) [Login](https://www.budgetbytes.com/?memberful_endpoint=auth)
- [Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/)
- [Recipe Search](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/#recent)
- [Categories](https://www.budgetbytes.com/index/)
- [Ingredient Index](https://www.budgetbytes.com/index/#recipes-by-ingredient)
- [Surprise Me](https://www.budgetbytes.com/random/)
- [Recipe Roundups](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/extra-bytes/recipe-roundups/)
- [Popular](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/)
- [Meal Prep](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/extra-bytes/budget-friendly-meal-prep/)
- [Dinner Ideas](https://www.budgetbytes.com/19-quick-and-easy-weeknight-dinners/)
- [One Pot Meals](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/one-pot/)
- [Chicken Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/meat/chicken/)
- [Pasta Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/pasta/)
- [Vegetarian Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/vegetarian/)
- [Salad Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/salads/)
- [Breakfast Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/breakfast/)
- [Recipes under \$10](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/cost-per-recipe/recipes-under-10/)
- [Sandwich Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/sandwich/)
- [Soup Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/soup/)
- [Air Fryer Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/air-fryer/)
- [Meal Plans](https://www.budgetbytes.com/join/)
- [About](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/)
- [About Budget Bytes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/)
- [New? Start Here](https://www.budgetbytes.com/welcome-to-budget-bytes/)
- [FAQ](https://www.budgetbytes.com/faq/)
- [Contact](https://www.budgetbytes.com/contact/)
[Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/) Âť [Sauce Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/sauce/)
# Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe
[](https://www.budgetbytes.com/author/beth/)
By [Beth Moncel](https://www.budgetbytes.com/author/beth/)
Published Feb 28, 2025
4\.70
from
133
[Read reviews](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comments)
Prep 5 minutes mins
Cook 20 minutes mins
Servings 3 cups
\$3.41 recipe / \$1.14 per cup
[ Jump to recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#wprm-recipe-container-33082)[ Save](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/)
[  Share](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/)


Iâve made Homemade Pizza Sauce before, but I wanted one that was even *thicker* and *richer* because I had some BIG plans to dip things in it. Dipping sauces have to be really thick, or else they wonât hang on to whatever is being dunked in them. But I also love a good, thick sauce on my pizzas. A thick sauce gives all the flavor without making the dough soggy. And thatâs exactly what this recipe achieves.đ



Pin this recipe for later\!
[Pin It](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F06%2FHomemade-Pizza-Sauce-PIN1.jpg&description=Use+this+Homemade+Pizza+Sauce+Recipe+to+make+your+own+sauce+at+home+in+minutes+with+just+a+few+pantry+staples.+Use+now%2C+or+freeze+for+later%21&is_video=false)


*All recipes are rigorously tested in our [Nashville Test Kitchen](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/#h-how-we-test-recipes) to ensure they are easy, affordable, and delicious.*
> âAbsolutely delicious!!! I have made this a few times now. I freeze this in 1/2 cup portions for Friday night pizza, love it!! I always have these ingredients on hand and it is so simple to make. Thank you for this recipe!!â
>
> Kathy R
## Super Easy Pizza Sauce Recipe
More often than not, store-bought pizza sauces can be watery, overly sweet, or justâŚmeh. But when you make it yourself? You can control EVERYTHING. The richness, the seasoning, the texture. And let me tell you, this sauce recipe is next-level. Itâs bold, thick, perfectly balanced, and honestly, so easy to make. Oh, and did I mention it makes a HUGE batch? Youâll have plenty to slather on pizzas, use as a dipping sauce, or even stash in the freezer. Because trust me, once you taste this, youâll want to use it all the time.
Share this recipe
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_buttondescription=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share on Facebook")
[WhatsApp](https://wa.me/?text=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/description=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share with WhatsApp")
[Email](mailto:?subject=Your%20friend%20has%20shared%20an%20article%20with%20you.&body=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce%20Recipe%0D%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F%0D%0Adescription=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share via Email")
[Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/&media=https://www.budgetbytes.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Homemade-Pizza-Sauce-PIN1.jpg&description=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share on Pinterest")


## Homemade Pizza Sauce
Cost \$3.41 recipe / \$1.14 per cup
4\.70 from 133 votes
Use this Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe to make your own sauce at home in minutes with just a few pantry staples. Use now, or freeze for later\!
[Step-by-step photos](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#h-how-to-make-pizza-sauce-step-by-step-photos) can be seen below the recipe card.


Servings
cups
Prep 5 minutes mins
Cook 20 minutes mins
Total 25 minutes mins
[Save Recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/) [Print Recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/wprm_print/homemade-pizza-sauce) [Read the reviews](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#wpd-threads)
### Ingredients
- â˘
2 Tbsp olive oil (\$0.44)
- â˘
1 clove garlic (minced, \$0.04)
- â˘
1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes (\$1.67)
- â˘
1 6 oz. can tomato paste (\$0.94)
- â˘
1/2 Tbsp sugar (\$0.01)
- â˘
3/4 tsp salt (\$0.03)
- â˘
1 tsp dried basil (\$0.10)
- â˘
1/2 tsp dried oregano (\$0.05)
- â˘
Freshly cracked black pepper (\$0.08)
- â˘
1 pinch crushed red pepper (optional, \$0.05)
### Video
### Instructions
- Add the olive oil and garlic to a sauce pot and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or just until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, some freshly cracked pepper (10-15 cranks of a pepper mill), and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pot, allow the pot to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 15 minutes minimum, or up to 30 minutes (I often let it simmer as I prepare my pizza dough).
See how we [calculate recipe costs here](https://www.budgetbytes.com/how-to-calculate-recipe-costs/).
***
### Notes
- To freeze this sauce, first cool it completely in the refrigerator, then transfer to quart-sized freezer bags or freezer-safe resealable containers and freeze until solid. Simply reheat over low heat in a sauce pot, with a lid to minimize evaporation, and stir often, until heated through.
### Nutrition Information
Serving: 3CupsCalories: 157\.17kcal (8%)Carbohydrates: 33\.13g (11%)Protein: 7\.03g (14%)Fat: 2\.6g (4%)Sodium: 1200\.1mg (52%)Fiber: 7\.83g (33%)
*Read our full [nutrition disclaimer here.](https://www.budgetbytes.com/nutrition-information-disclaimer/)*
*Percentages are of daily value.*


Have you tried this recipe?Mention [@budgetbytes](https://www.instagram.com/budgetbytes) or tag [\#budgetbytes](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/budgetbytes) on Instagram\!
## **How to Make Pizza Sauce Step-by-Step Photos**


**SautĂŠ the garlic:** SautĂŠ one clove of minced garlic (or two if you like things garlicky!) in 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat for one to two minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.


**Add ingredients:** Add one 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, one 6 oz. can tomato paste, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 3/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, some freshly cracked pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce pot.


**Stir and simmer:** Stir the ingredients together, place a lid on top, then allow it to come up to a simmer. Once simmering, turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes minimum (I sometimes let it simmer longer while Iâm preparing whatever Iâm serving it with and the flavor just gets sweeter and deeper).


## How to Use Homemade Pizza Sauce
This recipe makes three cups, which is enough for about 3 large pizzas or 12 dipping portions (and it freezes great!). Other than pizzas, one of my favorite ways to use it is for [pizzadillas](https://www.budgetbytes.com/pizzadillas/)âI add cheese and toppings to a tortilla, warm it up, and use the sauce for dipping! Itâs also perfect with [stromboli](https://www.budgetbytes.com/stromboli/), giving that extra layer of flavor when paired with crispy dough. You can even use it to make our [stuffed bell peppers](https://www.budgetbytes.com/stuffed-bell-peppers/) or [zucchini boats recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/zucchini-boats/)! However, one of my absolute favorite dinners at the moment is my [baked pizza chicken](https://www.budgetbytes.com/baked-pizza-chicken/). Itâs gooey, cheesy, saucy, and always a win when made with this sauce recipe\!
## How to Store and Reheat
If this recipe makes more sauce than you need for one meal, go ahead and freeze the remainder of the sauce. I suggest using a quart-sized freezer bag. To reheat, just tear away the freezer bag and empty the frozen sauce into a small sauce pot. Reheat over low, stirring often, until it is heated through. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4-5 days. As for canning, I havenât personally tried to can this sauce, so I canât vouch for the results.
## Try These Homemade Pizza Recipes
[ Homemade Pizza Dough \$0.62 recipe / \$0.16 serving](https://www.budgetbytes.com/pizza-dough/)
[ Thin and Crispy Pizza Crust \$0.59 recipe / \$0.30 per pizza](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thin-and-crispy-pizza-crust/)
[ No-Yeast Pizza Dough \$0.92 recipe / \$0.23 serving](https://www.budgetbytes.com/no-yeast-pizza-dough/)
[ French Bread Pizza \$2.45 recipe / \$0.61 each (cheese pizza)](https://www.budgetbytes.com/french-bread-pizza/)
*Our Homemade Pizza Sauce recipe was originally published 8/3/11. It was retested, reworked, and republished to be better than ever 2/28/25.*
Share this recipe
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_buttondescription=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share on Facebook")
[WhatsApp](https://wa.me/?text=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/description=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share with WhatsApp")
[Email](mailto:?subject=Your%20friend%20has%20shared%20an%20article%20with%20you.&body=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce%20Recipe%0D%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F%0D%0Adescription=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share via Email")
[Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/&media=https://www.budgetbytes.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Homemade-Pizza-Sauce-PIN1.jpg&description=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce "Share on Pinterest")
Posted in: [Dairy Free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/dairy-free/), [Globally Inspired Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/global/), [Gluten free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/gluten-free/), [Italian Inspired Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/global/italian/), [Pizza Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/pizza/), [Quick Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/quick/), [Recipes under \$5](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/cost-per-recipe/recipes-under-5/), [Sauce Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/sauce/), [Soy Free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/soy-free/), [Under \$1.50 per serving](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/cost-per-serving/under-1-50-per-serving/), [Vegan Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/vegetarian/vegan/), [Vegetarian Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/vegetarian/)
[](https://www.budgetbytes.com/author/beth/)
Beth MoncelIâm a food lover, number cruncher, and meticulous budgeter. I love science and art, and the way they come together when I cook. I love to create, problem solve, and learn new things. Making great food is my passion, my purpose, and my favorite thing to share with others.[More About Beth](https://www.budgetbytes.com/author/beth/)


### Eat More. Spend Less.
Sign up for our newsletter and new recipes sent to your inbox every week\!
4\.70 from 133 votes ([27 ratings without comment](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/))
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. [Learn how your comment data is processed.](https://akismet.com/privacy/)
226 Comments
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Lyndsay Nelson
01\.10.26 8:23 pm
So easy and yummy! This will be our go-to. Thank you
0
Reply
Mizdshell
07\.21.25 4:38 pm
My picky grand boys love the sauce. I used balsamic vinegar in place of sugar. Pizzadillas are on the menu regularly. Canât wait to make baked pizza chicken. Thank you, Beth, for a great addition to our cuisine\!
0
Reply
Alexis
05\.19.25 7:35 am
Easy and delicious. Far superior to any jarred sauce.
0
Reply
Matt
02\.12.25 6:07 pm
This sauce is my go-to every time I make a pizza. Itâs the perfect consistency and flavor with a good amount of kick to it.
0
Reply
Debbie
02\.03.25 12:04 pm
Im going to can this in pint size jars.
Iâm excited, I made aka canned marinera 9 jars yesterday@
0
Reply
Brittany
11\.09.25 7:19 pm
Reply to [Debbie](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-690718)
How long in the canner?
0
Reply
Jacki C
02\.01.25 10:22 am
I will never buy pizza sauce in a jar again. This was delicious. I made a half recipe because I only had a 14oz can of diced tomatoes. I pulsed them in the blender to get the crushed tomato consistency then carried the recipe out from there. Iâm going to start making this in bulk and freezing for our pizza nights.
2
Reply
Sarah
01\.12.25 8:46 pm
This is so easy to make with shelf-stable staples. I freeze it in half cups for use in pizzas, particularly the no-knead pan pizza recipe: <https://www.budgetbytes.com/knead-pan-pizza/>
0
Reply
Cat N
10\.25.24 3:42 pm
Delicious and so very easy! I like to add extra red pepper flake sometimes for a little more kick, but great as written.
0
Reply
Neat
10\.05.24 6:47 pm
Hello do you ever bottle your sauce up to keep on the shelf or give to friends as a gift?
1
Reply
Paige Rhodes
10\.10.24 3:40 pm
Reply to [Neat](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-687401)
We havenât tried that for this one! Sweet idea, though\!
0
Reply
Susanna
09\.07.24 12:16 pm
Can this recipe be canned?\!
0
Reply
Paige Rhodes
09\.10.24 9:53 am
Reply to [Susanna](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-685938)
We havenât tried, Susanna! We donât can in the studio really so we havenât tested that out.
0
Reply
Kathy R.
09\.03.24 4:24 pm
Absolutely delicious!!! I have made this a few times now. I freeze this in 1/2 cup portions for Friday night pizza, love it!! I always have these ingredients on hand and it is so simple to make. Thank you for this recipe!\!
0
Reply
Kay
12\.06.25 7:30 pm
Reply to [Kathy R.](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-685614)
How do you use it once frozen. Does the sauce lose its consistency?
0
Reply
Paige Rhodes
12\.08.25 12:19 pm
Reply to [Kay](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-699775)
I would recommend slowly warming it up on the stove! It should retain itâs consistency well\!
0
Reply
Rose
08\.21.24 1:25 pm
This is the only pizza sauce recipe I use and I make a lot of pizzas! I do add less tomato paste (about 1/3) because I like my sauce a little less thick. I also saute the paste, garlic and herbs separately, prior to adding to the tomatoes (which I crush myself). If I have them in the freezer, I also add Parmesan or grana padano rinds for a little extra flavour. I always make at least a double batch (I tripled it today!) so I have jars in the freezer when I need them. Thank you!\!
1
Reply
Beth A Wickes
08\.07.24 9:39 pm
Can I make(crust) night before, put in fridge overnite and finish making the pizza next day???
0
Reply
Paige Rhodes
08\.12.24 10:28 am
Reply to [Beth A Wickes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#comment-683335)
The sauce can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and used the next day! If youâre asking about the crust, it depends on what recipe youâre using, how much yeast is used, etc. But most pizza doughs can be refrigerated over night and used the next day.
0
Reply
Jake
08\.03.24 8:48 am
This recipe is so damn good. Been using it for a couple years now. I could probably eat a bowl of it alone with a spoon
1
Reply
Valerie Roman
07\.27.24 11:22 am
I changed a few things like I toasted the herbs and garlic. I also added finely chopped green bell pepper just a teaspoon. I followed every thing else in reciepe. Turned out great.
0
Reply
Load More Comments


#### About Budget Bytes
As food lovers and number crunchers, weâve decided that cooking on a budget shouldnât mean canned beans and ramen noodles night after night. Join us for delicious recipes designed for small budgets.
[MEET THE TEAM](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/)

Just \$5 / Month
New Money-Saving Meal Plans Every Week
[Join Today\!](https://www.budgetbytes.com/join/)
## Reader Favorite Recipes
[ Classic Homemade Meatloaf Recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/classic-homemade-meatloaf/)
[ Baked Chicken Drumsticks](https://www.budgetbytes.com/baked-chicken-drumsticks/)
[ Easy Homemade Meatballs](https://www.budgetbytes.com/homemade-meatballs/)
[ Creamy Garlic Chicken](https://www.budgetbytes.com/creamy-garlic-chicken/)
[More Trending Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/#recent)
## New and related recipes
[ Remoulade Sauce](https://www.budgetbytes.com/remoulade-sauce/)
[ Easy Hollandaise Sauce](https://www.budgetbytes.com/easy-hollandaise-sauce/)
[ Teriyaki Sauce](https://www.budgetbytes.com/easy-homemade-teriyaki-sauce-or-marinade/)
[ The Best Weeknight Pasta Sauce](https://www.budgetbytes.com/the-best-weeknight-pasta-sauce/)


Small Budget? No Problem\!
Cooking on a budget shouldn't mean canned beans and ramen noodles night after night. Welcome to the world of delicious recipes designed for small budgets.
Recipes
- [Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/)
- [How-To](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/how-to/)
- [Kitchen Basics](https://www.budgetbytes.com/kitchen-basics/)
- [Pantry Staples](https://www.budgetbytes.com/stock-kitchen-pantry-staples/)
- [Extra Bytes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/extra-bytes/)
About
- [About Budget Bytes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/)
- [FAQ](https://www.budgetbytes.com/faq/)
- [Contact](https://www.budgetbytes.com/contact/)
- [Collaborate With Us](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdd_uMSM7zFivZBDNGeZXb1gf2JJecrkb2Zd5zuAp9NUtFk4Q/viewform)
Contact
- [Facebook](http://facebook.com/budgetbytes1)
- [Pinterest](http://www.pinterest.com/budgetbytes/)
- [Instagram](http://instagram.com/budgetbytes)
- [Twitter](https://twitter.com/budget_bytes)
- [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC17vdVOZBVxTSDcldUBBlRg)
- [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@budget_bytes?lang=en)
Š 2026 Budget Bytes. All rights reserved.
[Privacy Policy](https://www.budgetbytes.com/privacy-policy/) [Terms of Service](https://www.budgetbytes.com/terms-conditions/) [Accessibility Statement](https://www.budgetbytes.com/budget-bytes-web-accessibility-policy/) Accessibility Options
wpDiscuz
Insert


[  Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F06%2FHomemade-Pizza-Sauce-PIN1.jpg&description=Use+this+Homemade+Pizza+Sauce+Recipe+to+make+your+own+sauce+at+home+in+minutes+with+just+a+few+pantry+staples.+Use+now%2C+or+freeze+for+later%21&is_video=false)
[  Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F)
[  Email](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20recipe%21&body=Homemade%20Pizza%20Sauce%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.budgetbytes.com%2Fthick-rich-pizza-sauce%2F%0A%0A2%20Tbsp%20olive%20oil%20%28%240.44%29%0A1%20clove%20garlic%20%28minced%2C%20%240.04%29%0A1%2028%20oz.%20can%20crushed%20tomatoes%20%28%241.67%29%0A1%206%20oz.%20can%20tomato%20paste%20%28%240.94%29%0A1%2F2%20Tbsp%20sugar%20%28%240.01%29%0A3%2F4%20tsp%20salt%20%28%240.03%29%0A1%20tsp%20dried%20basil%20%28%240.10%29%0A1%2F2%20tsp%20dried%20oregano%20%28%240.05%29%0AFreshly%20cracked%20black%20pepper%20%28%240.08%29%0A1%20pinch%20crushed%20red%20pepper%20%28optional%2C%20%240.05%29%0A)
[  Copy Link](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/)




Have an account? [Login](https://www.budgetbytes.com/?memberful_endpoint=auth)
## SIGN UP FOR FREE
- Save recipes
- See the recipes youâve viewed
- Get weekly recipe emails
[GET YOUR FREE ACCOUNT](https://budgetbytes.memberful.com/register)
## Rate This Recipe
## Recipe Ratings without Comment
Something went wrong. Please try again. |
| Readable Markdown | Iâve made Homemade Pizza Sauce before, but I wanted one that was even *thicker* and *richer* because I had some BIG plans to dip things in it. Dipping sauces have to be really thick, or else they wonât hang on to whatever is being dunked in them. But I also love a good, thick sauce on my pizzas. A thick sauce gives all the flavor without making the dough soggy. And thatâs exactly what this recipe achieves.đ

 Pin this recipe for later\!
*All recipes are rigorously tested in our [Nashville Test Kitchen](https://www.budgetbytes.com/about/#h-how-we-test-recipes) to ensure they are easy, affordable, and delicious.*
> âAbsolutely delicious!!! I have made this a few times now. I freeze this in 1/2 cup portions for Friday night pizza, love it!! I always have these ingredients on hand and it is so simple to make. Thank you for this recipe!!â
>
> Kathy R
## Super Easy Pizza Sauce Recipe
More often than not, store-bought pizza sauces can be watery, overly sweet, or justâŚmeh. But when you make it yourself? You can control EVERYTHING. The richness, the seasoning, the texture. And let me tell you, this sauce recipe is next-level. Itâs bold, thick, perfectly balanced, and honestly, so easy to make. Oh, and did I mention it makes a HUGE batch? Youâll have plenty to slather on pizzas, use as a dipping sauce, or even stash in the freezer. Because trust me, once you taste this, youâll want to use it all the time.
Cost \$3.41 recipe / \$1.14 per cup
4\.70 from 133 votes
Use this Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe to make your own sauce at home in minutes with just a few pantry staples. Use now, or freeze for later\!
[Step-by-step photos](https://www.budgetbytes.com/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/#h-how-to-make-pizza-sauce-step-by-step-photos) can be seen below the recipe card.

- â˘
2 Tbsp olive oil (\$0.44)
- â˘
1 clove garlic (minced, \$0.04)
- â˘
1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes (\$1.67)
- â˘
1 6 oz. can tomato paste (\$0.94)
- â˘
1/2 Tbsp sugar (\$0.01)
- â˘
3/4 tsp salt (\$0.03)
- â˘
1 tsp dried basil (\$0.10)
- â˘
1/2 tsp dried oregano (\$0.05)
- â˘
Freshly cracked black pepper (\$0.08)
- â˘
1 pinch crushed red pepper (optional, \$0.05)
- Add the olive oil and garlic to a sauce pot and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or just until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, some freshly cracked pepper (10-15 cranks of a pepper mill), and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pot, allow the pot to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 15 minutes minimum, or up to 30 minutes (I often let it simmer as I prepare my pizza dough).
See how we [calculate recipe costs here](https://www.budgetbytes.com/how-to-calculate-recipe-costs/).
***
- To freeze this sauce, first cool it completely in the refrigerator, then transfer to quart-sized freezer bags or freezer-safe resealable containers and freeze until solid. Simply reheat over low heat in a sauce pot, with a lid to minimize evaporation, and stir often, until heated through.
Serving: 3CupsCalories: 157\.17kcal (8%)Carbohydrates: 33\.13g (11%)Protein: 7\.03g (14%)Fat: 2\.6g (4%)Sodium: 1200\.1mg (52%)Fiber: 7\.83g (33%)
*Percentages are of daily value.*
## **How to Make Pizza Sauce Step-by-Step Photos**

**SautĂŠ the garlic:** SautĂŠ one clove of minced garlic (or two if you like things garlicky!) in 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat for one to two minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.

**Add ingredients:** Add one 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, one 6 oz. can tomato paste, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 3/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, some freshly cracked pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce pot.

**Stir and simmer:** Stir the ingredients together, place a lid on top, then allow it to come up to a simmer. Once simmering, turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes minimum (I sometimes let it simmer longer while Iâm preparing whatever Iâm serving it with and the flavor just gets sweeter and deeper).

## How to Use Homemade Pizza Sauce
This recipe makes three cups, which is enough for about 3 large pizzas or 12 dipping portions (and it freezes great!). Other than pizzas, one of my favorite ways to use it is for [pizzadillas](https://www.budgetbytes.com/pizzadillas/)âI add cheese and toppings to a tortilla, warm it up, and use the sauce for dipping! Itâs also perfect with [stromboli](https://www.budgetbytes.com/stromboli/), giving that extra layer of flavor when paired with crispy dough. You can even use it to make our [stuffed bell peppers](https://www.budgetbytes.com/stuffed-bell-peppers/) or [zucchini boats recipe](https://www.budgetbytes.com/zucchini-boats/)! However, one of my absolute favorite dinners at the moment is my [baked pizza chicken](https://www.budgetbytes.com/baked-pizza-chicken/). Itâs gooey, cheesy, saucy, and always a win when made with this sauce recipe\!
## How to Store and Reheat
If this recipe makes more sauce than you need for one meal, go ahead and freeze the remainder of the sauce. I suggest using a quart-sized freezer bag. To reheat, just tear away the freezer bag and empty the frozen sauce into a small sauce pot. Reheat over low, stirring often, until it is heated through. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4-5 days. As for canning, I havenât personally tried to can this sauce, so I canât vouch for the results.
*Our Homemade Pizza Sauce recipe was originally published 8/3/11. It was retested, reworked, and republished to be better than ever 2/28/25.*
Posted in: [Dairy Free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/dairy-free/), [Globally Inspired Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/global/), [Gluten free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/gluten-free/), [Italian Inspired Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/global/italian/), [Pizza Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/pizza/), [Quick Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/quick/), [Recipes under \$5](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/cost-per-recipe/recipes-under-5/), [Sauce Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/sauce/), [Soy Free Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/soy-free/), [Under \$1.50 per serving](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/cost-per-serving/under-1-50-per-serving/), [Vegan Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/vegetarian/vegan/), [Vegetarian Recipes](https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/vegetarian/)
Beth MoncelIâm a food lover, number cruncher, and meticulous budgeter. I love science and art, and the way they come together when I cook. I love to create, problem solve, and learn new things. Making great food is my passion, my purpose, and my favorite thing to share with others.[More About Beth](https://www.budgetbytes.com/author/beth/) |
| Shard | 118 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 13301165280624684118 |
| Unparsed URL | com,budgetbytes!www,/thick-rich-pizza-sauce/ s443 |