Dinner

Aurelio’s Pizza Sauce Recipe

Name: Aurelio’s Pizza Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional); 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

Byluca Carter December 30, 2025December 30, 2025

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Introduction

Aurelio’s Pizza Sauce is a classic, flavorful base that brings authentic Italian taste to your homemade pizzas. Made from crushed tomatoes and a blend of herbs and spices, this sauce is easy to prepare and perfect for elevating any pizza night.

A white bowl filled with thick red tomato sauce that has a slightly chunky texture. The sauce is smooth on top with swirls that make a spiral pattern from the center outward. On the very center of the sauce, there are three fresh green basil leaves as garnish. The bowl is placed on a white plate with blue speckles around the edge. Both are set on a white marble surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)

1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Place a pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Warm the oil until hot but not smoking.
Step 2: Add garlic powder (or minced garlic if preferred) and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor and slightly caramelize the paste.
Step 4: Pour in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine with the tomato paste and oil.
Step 5: Add sugar, salt, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and fennel seeds if using. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce gently for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
Step 7: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in grated Parmesan if desired, adding subtle richness and umami.
Step 8: Let the sauce cool slightly. Blend if a smooth texture is preferred, or leave chunky if you like a heartier sauce.

Step 9: Use immediately on your pizza or store for later use.

Tips & Variations

For a fresher garlic flavor, substitute garlic powder with 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
Add a splash of red wine during simmering to deepen the sauce’s complexity.

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar by a half teaspoon to balance acidity.
Omit Parmesan for a dairy-free option, or try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.

Storage

Store the pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with thick red tomato sauce, with a slightly chunky texture and rich color, sits in the center of a white plate with blue speckles around the edge. On top of the sauce, there are three fresh green basil leaves arranged neatly in the middle. The setup is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed. Cook them down longer to reduce excess moisture and concentrate the flavors.

Is it necessary to simmer the sauce for 25 minutes?

Simmering helps develop the flavors and thickens the sauce. While you can skip or shorten this step, the taste and texture will be less rich and well-rounded.