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Homemade Pizza Sauce

Skip the jar: one tomato, a small onion and two garlic cloves blended and simmered with oregano, lifted with tomato paste for body and a spoon of ketchup for that gentle sweetness — spread it on dough or pasta all week.

31 Dec 2025
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Prep5 mins
Cook10 mins
ServesFor 2–3 pizzas
LevelEasy

Homemade pizza sauce is an indispensable base for anyone making pizza at home, outshining store-bought jars with its freshness and clean ingredients. The recipe brings together fresh tomato, garlic and herbs for a flavour balanced between tang and warmth. A touch of ketchup and tomato paste gives the sauce body and an appetizing red colour that clings well to the dough.

How to Prepare

1

Blend the tomato, onion and garlic until smooth.

Blend the tomato, onion and garlic until smooth
2

Pour into a small pot and simmer over medium heat.

Pour into a small pot and simmer over medium heat
3

Season with salt, black pepper, mixed spice and oregano.

Season with salt, black pepper, mixed spice and oregano
4

Stir in the tomato paste and ketchup and cook a few minutes until thickened.

Stir in the tomato paste and ketchup and cook a few minutes
5

Cool, then jar — it keeps up to two weeks in the fridge.

Cool, then jar — it keeps up to two weeks in the fridge
Chef Noor's Tip

Simmer until it coats the back of a spoon — watery sauce makes soggy pizza, and nobody forgives soggy pizza.

Ingredient Swaps

• Oregano can be swapped for dried basil or an Italian herb blend.

• When fresh tomatoes are scarce, use crushed canned tomatoes.

• The ketchup is optional and can be replaced with a pinch of sugar to balance the tomato acidity.

Common Questions

How do I get a thick sauce?

Cook it on low heat until the excess water evaporates and it thickens.

Do I strain the sauce?

Blend it then strain if you want a smooth, seedless texture.

How long does it keep?

Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for three to five days, or freeze it.

Is it good for other dishes?

Yes, it suits pasta, sandwiches and baked dishes.

How do I adjust the acidity?

Add a pinch of sugar to soften the tomato tang when needed.