Pizza Sauce Recipe with Tomato Paste — The Secret to Authentic Italian Flavor
When it comes to making homemade pizza, the crust gets the glory — but it’s the sauce that brings everything together. And let’s be honest, a perfect pizza starts with a soulful, rich, and flavorful sauce.
Today, I’m sharing my ultimate pizza sauce recipe with tomato paste, a simple yet powerful method that transforms your pizza into a restaurant-quality delight. With just a few pantry staples, this sauce will become your go-to for every pizza night.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will give you that perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a rich umami depth that only tomato paste can deliver.
Let’s dive in.
Why Tomato Paste Makes a Difference
Tomato paste is the unsung hero of pizza sauce. It’s concentrated, intense, and brings a depth of flavor that crushed tomatoes or marinara often can’t match.
Why use tomato paste in pizza sauce?
- Rich flavor — Tomato paste is slow-cooked tomatoes reduced to concentrate flavor.
- Smooth texture — It creates a silky base for the sauce without watery consistency.
- Umami boost — Adds savory depth that makes pizza irresistible.
This recipe combines tomato paste with fresh herbs and seasonings to give you that classic Italian pizza taste — without relying on canned sauces loaded with preservatives.
Ingredients & Measurements
Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make the best pizza sauce with tomato paste.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp (optional) |
| Salt | 1 tsp (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp (optional) |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Pizza Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can make the sauce bitter.
Pro tip: Fresh garlic gives the best aroma, but you can substitute garlic powder in a pinch.
Step 2: Add Tomato Paste
Add your 6 oz can of tomato paste to the pan. Stir to coat the garlic and olive oil, letting the paste cook for about 2–3 minutes. This caramelizes the paste slightly and intensifies its flavor.
Step 3: Add Water & Herbs
Pour in 1 cup of water gradually, stirring constantly to create a smooth base. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Adjust Sweetness
Taste your sauce — tomato paste is naturally tangy, so adding a little sugar (1 tsp) balances the acidity.
This step is optional but recommended if your paste is especially tart.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Turn off the heat and stir in 1 tbsp chopped parsley. Fresh herbs brighten the sauce, giving it a vibrant, fresh finish.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Allow the sauce to rest for 10–15 minutes before spreading on your pizza dough. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Pizza Sauce
- Use high-quality tomato paste — it makes all the difference. San Marzano or imported Italian brands are worth it.
- Simmer slowly — quick boiling can result in a flat taste. Slow cooking releases natural sweetness and enhances depth.
- Make in advance — this sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, and the flavor improves over time.
- Freeze for later — portion into small containers and freeze for up to three months for easy pizza nights.
- Customize herbs — add fresh basil or thyme for different flavor profiles.
FAQ — Pizza Sauce with Tomato Paste
Q1: Can I make this sauce without tomato paste?
Yes, but tomato paste gives a rich texture and flavor that crushed tomatoes lack. You can substitute with tomato puree, but adjust seasoning and cooking time accordingly.
Q2: How much sauce do I need for one pizza?
For a 12-inch pizza, about ½ cup of sauce is enough to spread evenly. Adjust based on your preference for saucy pizzas.
Q3: Can I use this sauce for pasta too?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully as a pasta sauce. Just add extra water or tomato puree for a thinner consistency.
Q4: How do I store leftover pizza sauce?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Variations of Pizza Sauce with Tomato Paste
- Spicy Pizza Sauce: Add ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Garlic Lovers’ Sauce: Add an extra garlic clove and ½ tsp garlic powder.
- Creamy Pizza Sauce: Stir in 2 tbsp cream or mascarpone for a richer base.
- Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza sauce isn’t just for pizza. You can use it for:
- Homemade calzones
- Pasta dishes
- Garlic bread dipping
- Mozzarella sticks
- Flatbreads
Its versatility makes it a kitchen staple.
Final Thoughts
Making your own pizza sauce with tomato paste is one of those kitchen skills that pays off every time you make pizza. It’s fast, easy, customizable, and far superior to jarred sauces. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
The beauty of homemade pizza sauce is that it’s all about balancing flavors. Tomato paste gives the body, herbs give aroma, and seasoning brings it to life. When spread over a perfectly baked crust with fresh mozzarella and your favorite toppings, it’s pure magic.
See Also: Perfect Pizza Recipe Dough: Step-by-Step Guide to Crispy, Soft, Homemade Pizza Crust
