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Lou Malnati’s Pizza Sauce Recipe
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Lou Malnati’s Pizza Sauce Recipe

When you think of pizza, the sauce plays a huge role in making it truly special. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting Lou Malnati’s Pizza Sauce Recipe, then you know how incredibly delicious their pizza sauce is.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

  • Whole Peeled Tomatoes = 01 can 28 oz (preferably San Marzano) (for best flavor)
  • Olive Oil = 02 tablespoons
  • Garlic = 03 cloves minced or (Garlic Powder = 01 teaspoon)
  • Oregano = 01 teaspoon dried
  • Basil = 01 teaspoon dried
  • Salt = 1/2 teaspoon or to taste
  • Black Pepper = 1/4 teaspoon
  • Red Pepper Flakes = 1/4 teaspoon for a little heat (Optional)
  • Tomato Paste = 01 tablespoon for a thicker sauce (Optional)
  • Sugar = 01 tablespoon if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce (Optional)

Equipment

  • A Medium-Sized Saucepan
  • A Wooden Spoon or Spatula (for stirring)
  • A Can Opener (if using canned tomatoes)
  • A Measuring Spoon (for spices)
  • A Cutting Board and Knife (for chopping garlic) (if using fresh garlic)
  • A Container (for storing leftover sauce) (Optional)

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Prepare the Tomatoes
  1. Open the can of tomatoes.
  2. Pour them into a bowl.
  3. Use a spoon or hands to break the tomatoes.
  4. Leave some pieces bigger for a chunkier sauce.
Step 02: Heat the Olive Oil
  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan.
  2. Add minced garlic once the oil is hot.
  3. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 03: Add the Tomatoes
  1. Stir in the prepared tomatoes.
  2. Mix with garlic and oil.
  3. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 04: Season the Sauce
  1. Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Stir in sugar if you want a sweeter taste.
  3. For a thicker sauce, add tomato paste.
Step 05: Simmer and Thicken
  1. Let the sauce simmer on low heat.
  2. Stir occasionally to thicken the sauce and blend flavors.
Step 06: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the sauce.
  2. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.
Step 07: Cool and Store
  1. Let the sauce cool.
  2. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  3. Or freeze for later use.
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  2. Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  3. Total Time: 45 minutes
  4. Servings: This recipe makes enough sauce for about 2-3 large pizzas, depending on how much sauce you like to use. It’s also great for dipping breadsticks or using as a sauce for pasta dishes.

Notes

Making Lou Malnati’s pizza sauce at home is simple, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to get it just right:
 
  • Use Whole Tomatoes: For the best flavor and texture, use whole canned tomatoes. They’re fresher and provide a more natural taste than crushed or pureed tomatoes.
  • Let It Simmer: After mixing your ingredients, let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. This helps to blend the flavors and thicken the sauce.
  • Don’t Overdo the Spices: The beauty of Lou Malnati’s pizza sauce lies in its simplicity. Stick to garlic, oregano, and basil for the best results—don’t add too many spices.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If you find your sauce too thick, you can add a little bit of water to reach your desired consistency. You want it thick enough to spread but not too dry.
  • Let It Rest: For the best taste, allow the sauce to cool and rest for a bit before using it on your pizza. This lets the flavors meld together even more.