Mark’s Sweet Pizza Sauce – The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tangy
Mark’s sweet pizza sauce is the perfect combination of rich tomato flavor, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of tangy goodness. This homemade pizza sauce is simple to make and works beautifully with classic and creative pizza toppings. Whether you're making a traditional pepperoni pizza or a gourmet-style pie, this sauce elevates every bite with its balanced flavor. Plus, it’s great for dipping, pasta, and even as a glaze for grilled meats!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smooth sauce)
Ingredients
- 1 28 oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or whole peeled, blended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup brown sugar adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for deeper sweetness
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Herbs & Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cinnamon optional, adds warmth
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a mild kick
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce:
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, honey, and red wine vinegar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly.
- Simmer for Flavor Development:
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional):
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend it directly in the pot or transfer it to a regular blender and pulse until smooth.
- Final Adjustments & Serving:
- Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness (add more brown sugar) or tanginess (add more vinegar) as needed.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using on pizza, pasta, or as a dipping sauce.
Notes
Make it Spicier: Add ½ tsp chili powder or extra red pepper flakes for a kick.
Herbal Twist: Use fresh thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
Gluten-Free & Vegan: This sauce is naturally gluten-free. For a vegan option, swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
Dairy-Free Pizza Idea: Use this sauce with dairy-free mozzarella and veggie toppings.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Herbal Twist: Use fresh thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
Gluten-Free & Vegan: This sauce is naturally gluten-free. For a vegan option, swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
Dairy-Free Pizza Idea: Use this sauce with dairy-free mozzarella and veggie toppings.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.