Gooey Goodness: Easy San Marzano Pizza Sauce Recipe You’ll Love Recipe
Introduction
This easy San Marzano pizza sauce recipe delivers rich, authentic flavors perfect for your homemade pizza. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a fresh, delicious sauce that will elevate any pie. Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s a must-try for pizza lovers.

Ingredients
- 1 can San Marzano Tomatoes (Substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes if DOP is unavailable)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to your personal preference)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Swap with Italian seasoning if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Choose a high-quality product)
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf (Remember to discard before using the sauce)
- 2-3 cloves Garlic (fresh, minced based on your taste)
- 2 tablespoons Italian Flat-Leaf Parsley (Consider basil for a different taste)
- Pinch of Chili Flakes (optional, adjust according to your spice preference)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, empty the can of San Marzano tomatoes. Use your hands to crush them into a chunky yet smooth consistency.
- Step 2: Sprinkle in the salt, dried oregano, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chili flakes, if desired.
- Step 3: Stir everything gently until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Step 4: Add the bay leaf to the mixture and allow the sauce to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Step 5: Before using the sauce, remember to discard the bay leaf.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh basil instead of parsley for a traditional Italian flavor twist.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and chili flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- For a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients briefly before letting it rest.
- If you like a sweeter sauce, add a small pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
Storage
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before use. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular canned tomatoes instead of San Marzano?
Yes, high-quality canned tomatoes work well as a substitute, though San Marzano tomatoes have a sweeter, less acidic flavor that many prefer for pizza sauce.
Do I need to cook this sauce before using it on pizza?
No, this recipe is designed to be used as a no-cook sauce. Letting it rest allows the flavors to develop, making it perfect to spread directly on your pizza dough.
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Gooey Goodness: Easy San Marzano Pizza Sauce Recipe You’ll Love Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes (including resting time)
- Yield: 4 servings (enough sauce for one 12-14 inch pizza) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy San Marzano pizza sauce recipe delivers a rich, tangy, and aromatic base perfect for any homemade pizza. Made with authentic San Marzano tomatoes, fresh garlic, and herbs, this sauce requires no cooking and brings out a fresh, vibrant flavor that will elevate your pizza nights. The simplicity of ingredients and preparation makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick and delicious pizza sauce with authentic Italian flair.
Ingredients
Tomato Base
- 1 can San Marzano Tomatoes (about 28 oz) – substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes if DOP is unavailable
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to your personal preference)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (substitute with Italian seasoning if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Italian Flat-Leaf Parsley (finely chopped; can substitute with basil for a different flavor)
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf (to be discarded before using the sauce)
- Pinch of Chili Flakes (optional, adjust according to spice preference)
Flavor Enhancers
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (choose a high-quality product)
- 2–3 cloves Garlic (fresh, minced based on your taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: In a medium bowl, pour the entire can of San Marzano tomatoes. Using your hands, gently crush the tomatoes to create a chunky yet smooth consistency, ensuring even texture for the sauce.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in salt, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using. This will form the flavorful base to enhance the tomato’s natural sweetness and acidity.
- Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Mix in the minced garlic and chopped Italian parsley to add depth and freshness to the sauce.
- Enhance with Olive Oil: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil for richness and a smooth mouthfeel, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Rest the Sauce: Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting period lets the flavors meld together beautifully, intensifying the sauce’s taste.
- Final Touch: Before using the sauce on your pizza, remove and discard the bay leaf used during seasoning to avoid any bitter notes.
Notes
- Using San Marzano tomatoes is key to achieving authentic flavor, but high-quality canned plum tomatoes can be a substitute.
- Adjust garlic and chili flakes quantities to suit your taste preferences for heat and pungency.
- This sauce requires no cooking, making it quick to prepare and perfect for fresh-tasting pizza bases.
- Letting the sauce rest at room temperature enhances the melded flavors significantly.
- Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: San Marzano pizza sauce, easy pizza sauce recipe, no cook pizza sauce, Italian pizza sauce, homemade pizza sauce

