Celebrity Cruise Lines Pizza Sauce Sweet Tomatoes Recipe: A Homemade Italian Delight
There’s something magical about a great pizza sauce — it can turn a humble pizza into a masterpiece. If you’ve ever sailed with Celebrity Cruise Lines, you might have noticed how their pizzas have that unique flavor — rich, fresh, and slightly sweet. That magic comes from their sweet tomato sauce. Today, I’m sharing my perfected version of the Celebrity Cruise Lines pizza sauce sweet tomatoes recipe so you can bring that cruise-ship pizza magic right into your home kitchen.
This isn’t just a recipe. It’s a story, a little secret of Italian kitchens and a homemade tradition I’ve refined after countless trials. From choosing the perfect sweet tomatoes to balancing seasoning, this guide will give you a sauce that sings.
Why Sweet Tomatoes Matter in Pizza Sauce
Sweet tomatoes are the heart of a flavorful pizza sauce. They bring a natural sugar balance that cuts through the acidity and adds depth. Celebrity Cruise Lines uses premium, ripe tomatoes that are slow-cooked into a smooth, vibrant sauce. We can recreate that in your kitchen with the right technique and ingredients.
Pro Tip: The sugar in sweet tomatoes caramelizes during cooking, creating that rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with mozzarella, fresh basil, and a crispy crust.
Table of Ingredients — Celebrity Cruise Lines Style Sweet Tomato Pizza Sauce
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Sweet tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano) | 2 lbs (fresh) or 2 cans (28 oz) |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves | 4, finely minced |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh basil leaves | 6–8 leaves |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp (optional) |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp (optional) |
| Water | ½ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choosing the Tomatoes
For authenticity, Roma tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes work best. San Marzano is a favorite in Italian kitchens for pizza sauce because of its natural sweetness and low acidity. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, use good quality canned San Marzano tomatoes.
Step 2: Preparing Tomatoes
If fresh: Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for 60 seconds, then plunge into ice water. Peel the skins, remove seeds, and chop roughly.
If canned: Drain slightly, reserving some juice for sauce consistency.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and onions, sauté until translucent and fragrant — about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then add sweet tomatoes, basil leaves, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir gently.
Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Add ½ cup water to thin sauce slightly. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Blend for Smoothness
Remove basil leaves, then use an immersion blender or food processor to puree until smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little water.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste your sauce. Adjust salt, sugar, or spices to your preference.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Sweet Tomato Pizza Sauce
- Freshness is key: If possible, use freshly harvested Roma or San Marzano tomatoes.
- Slow cook: The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor.
- Balance acidity: Sweet tomatoes help, but if sauce tastes too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or grated carrot for natural sweetness.
- Herbs matter: Fresh basil gives that authentic Italian aroma that dried herbs can’t fully match.
- Storage: Sauce can be stored in airtight jars for up to 5 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months.
FAQ — Celebrity Cruise Lines Style Pizza Sauce
Q1: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This sauce actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld. Store in the fridge or freeze portions.
Q2: Can I use this sauce for pasta too?
Absolutely — this sweet tomato sauce is versatile. Try it with spaghetti, penne, or lasagna.
Q3: Do I need to peel fresh tomatoes?
Peeling gives a smoother texture, which is ideal for pizza sauce. But if you don’t mind a rustic texture, you can skip peeling.
Q4: Can I skip sugar entirely?
Yes, especially if your tomatoes are naturally sweet. But a small pinch enhances flavor balance.
Q5: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil will give you that true Italian flavor closer to Celebrity Cruise Lines style pizza sauce.
Final Thoughts — Bringing Celebrity Cruise Pizza Home
This Celebrity Cruise Lines pizza sauce sweet tomatoes recipe is not just a sauce — it’s a passport to flavor. Whether you’re recreating your favorite cruise dinner at home or simply experimenting with authentic Italian recipes, this sauce delivers deep, rich, and slightly sweet tomato magic.
Pair it with a homemade pizza crust, fresh mozzarella, and your favorite toppings for a pizza experience that feels luxurious and authentic. It’s a slice of Italy in your own kitchen.
Cooking is love, and sharing is joy. So next time you make pizza, spread this sauce thick, sprinkle your favorite toppings, and bake with passion. Your taste buds will thank you — and maybe even your guests!
See Also:Cauliflower Crust Pizza Recipes | Healthy, Crispy & Irresistible Homemade Pizza
Vinit Hirave is a passionate content writer for Pizzetteria Brunetti. A true pizza enthusiast, Vinit’s love for authentic flavors goes beyond the keyboard—he has hands-on experience working in a pizza shop, giving him a deep understanding of what makes a perfect slice. Through his writing, he shares stories, tips, and insights that reflect both his industry knowledge and his genuine affection for the art of pizza-making.