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