While using store-bought pizza sauce is perfectly fine, when I have a few extra minutes, I like to make my own.  It doesn’t take long and only involves a few ingredients—and these can be switched up and tailored to fit your personal tastes.  I recommend giving it a try.

1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)

1 clove garlic, minced

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried oregano

1 Tbsp granulated sugar (see note)

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1 Tbsp minced fresh basil

1. Heat the olive oil in a small sauce pan over medium heat.  Once the oil is shimmering and easily coats the bottom of the pan, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

2. Immediately add the tomato sauce to prevent the garlic from burning.  Add the oregano, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.  Stir to combine.  Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat to low and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Add the minced basil, stir to combine, and taste for seasoning.  Use immediately, or store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.   It will keep, refrigerated, for 1 week.

Makes just under 2 cups of sauce

🍅 Sugar may seem like a weird ingredient, but it tempers the acidity of the tomato sauce.  If you’d prefer, leave it out or lower the amount to suit your tastes.