Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce is a simple, no-fuss tomato sauce packed with natural sweetness, herby aroma, and a rich tomato flavor. Made with just a few pantry staples, this sauce is ideal for homemade pizzas, calzones, flatbreads, or even as a dipping sauce. It’s cooked gently to develop flavor, and it’s freezer-friendly too.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce?

This pizza sauce is a basic cooked tomato sauce made from tinned tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, and dried herbs. It’s gently simmered to concentrate flavor and thicken slightly, resulting in a rich yet smooth sauce that clings beautifully to pizza dough.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Simple and Classic – Only 6–7 ingredients, no blender required.
Versatile Base Sauce – Works for pizza, pasta, or dips.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be stored or frozen easily.
Balanced Flavor – No sugar added—just natural sweetness from tomatoes.
Customizable – Add herbs, chili, or garlic to your taste.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce

Tinned Plum Tomatoes (400g / 14 oz, whole or chopped)
Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped)
Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
Dried Oregano (1 tsp)
Sea Salt (½ tsp or to taste)
Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional: A few torn basil leaves or a pinch of chili flakes

Jamie recommends good-quality tinned plum tomatoes for the best flavor.

Equipment Needed

Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Knife and chopping board
Sieve or blender (optional, for smoother texture)

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft but not colored.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add tomatoes and herbs

Pour in the tinned tomatoes, crushing them slightly if whole.
Add dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and reduce

Cook uncovered over low to medium heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
For a smoother sauce, mash with a spoon or blend briefly.

Step 4: Taste and cool

Adjust seasoning if needed.
Let the sauce cool completely before spreading on pizza dough.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce

Homemade Pizza Dough – The perfect pairing for a fresh Margherita or pepperoni pizza.
Calzones – Folded pizzas stuffed with cheese and sauce.
Pizza Toast – Quick weekday snack for kids or lunch.
Dipping Sauce – Serve with breadsticks or garlic knots.
Lasagna Base – Use as a lighter alternative to heavier tomato sauces.

Expert Tips for the Best Pizza Sauce

Use San Marzano Tomatoes – For the best sweet and rich flavor.
Cook Low and Slow – Allows the sauce to thicken naturally.
No Need for Sugar – Let the tomatoes shine.
Add Fresh Basil at the End – To preserve its aroma.
Blend for a Smooth Finish – If you prefer a uniform texture.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce

Spicy Version – Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Garlic-Heavy Sauce – Use 3–4 cloves for a punchy flavor.
Herb-Infused – Add rosemary or thyme for a rustic note.
Chunky Sauce – Don’t blend; keep it rustic for deep-pan pizzas.
No-Cook Version – Use crushed tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil mixed together (great for thin Neapolitan pizzas).

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in Portions – Spoon into freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Defrost Overnight – Or reheat gently on the stove.
Label and Date – Helps track freshness if batching.

Nutrition Value (per 2 tbsp serving)

Calories: ~30
Carbohydrates: ~3g
Sugar: ~2g
Fat: ~2g
Sodium: ~100mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes, but make sure to blanch and peel them first, then cook them down longer to reduce excess water. Roma or plum tomatoes work best for a rich sauce.

Does this pizza sauce need sugar?

No. Jamie’s version relies on the natural sweetness of good-quality tomatoes, so there’s no added sugar. However, you can add a pinch if your tomatoes are too acidic.

How thick should pizza sauce be?

The sauce should be slightly thick but still spreadable. It should coat the back of a spoon without running. Simmer uncovered until it reaches this consistency.

Can I freeze homemade pizza sauce?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in small airtight containers or ice cube trays. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce is proof that the best recipes are often the simplest. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a rich, balanced, and delicious tomato sauce that enhances every slice of pizza you make at home. It’s a kitchen staple you’ll use again and again.