15 Simple Ways to Thicken Pizza Sauce

Do you ever find yourself craving a homemade pizza with a perfectly thick and flavorful sauce that clings to every bite? Is your pizza night missing that restaurant-quality richness? Look no further! We’ve got 15 simple ways to thicken your pizza sauce and take your homemade pies to the next level.

The simplest way to thicken pizza sauce is by simmering it. Slowly cooking your sauce over low heat concentrates the flavors and reduces excess moisture, resulting in a luscious, thick consistency. But that’s just the beginning of our pizza sauce thickening journey.

From the art of toppings and the battle of sauces to the influence of ovens, we’ll uncover the secrets that make each slice unique. Say goodbye to watery and bland pizza sauces, and get ready to elevate your pizza-making game with our easy-to-follow tips and tricks. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Simmer Longer

When it comes to thickening your pizza sauce, the simplest method is often the most effective. Simmering your sauce for a longer duration is an easy way to achieve that desired thickness. Here’s how you do it:

Low and Slow: After preparing your pizza sauce, place it in a saucepan over low heat. Let it simmer gently for an extended period, typically around 20-30 minutes. This allows the excess liquid to evaporate, leaving you with a thicker sauce.
Stir Occasionally: While simmering, remember to stir your sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning. A wooden spoon works best for this task.
Taste as You Go: Keep tasting your sauce as it simmers to ensure it reaches your preferred thickness and flavor. Adjust the seasonings if needed.

By following these steps, you’ll transform your pizza sauce into a thick, rich, and flavorful base for your favorite pies.

Cornstarch Slurry

If you’re looking for an alternative way to thicken your pizza sauce that doesn’t involve prolonged simmering, consider using a cornstarch slurry. It’s quick, easy, and effective:

Ingredients: To create a cornstarch slurry, you’ll need cornstarch and cold water. The general ratio is one tablespoon of cornstarch to two tablespoons of cold water for every cup of sauce you want to thicken.
Mix Thoroughly: In a separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water together until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Add to Sauce: Pour the cornstarch slurry into your pizza sauce while it’s still simmering on low heat. Stir continuously as you pour to prevent lumps from forming.
Observe Thickness: As you stir, you’ll notice your sauce thickening. Keep stirring for a minute or two until the desired consistency is achieved.
Taste and Adjust: Once your sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The cornstarch won’t alter the flavor significantly.

Arrowroot Powder

For another natural thickening option, consider arrowroot powder. It’s gluten-free and adds a neutral taste to your sauce, making it an excellent choice for those who want to avoid cornstarch or flour. Here’s how to use it:

Measure the Amount: You’ll need about one to two teaspoons of arrowroot powder for every cup of pizza sauce you want to thicken.
Create a Slurry: Similar to the cornstarch method, mix the arrowroot powder with cold water in a separate bowl. Use about two tablespoons of cold water for every teaspoon of arrowroot powder.
Add to Sauce: Pour the arrowroot slurry into your simmering pizza sauce while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for a minute or two to thicken.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s consistency. If it’s not as thick as you’d like, you can add more arrowroot slurry in small increments.
Taste and Adjust: As always, taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed once it reaches the desired thickness.

Arrowroot powder is an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions and a great way to thicken your pizza sauce while maintaining its natural flavors.

Tomato Paste

If you’re looking for a straightforward and flavor-enhancing method to thicken your pizza sauce, reach for tomato paste. It not only adds thickness but also intensifies the tomato flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Start with Tomato Paste: Begin by adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste directly to your pizza sauce.
Stir It In: Stir the tomato paste into the sauce until it’s fully incorporated. The paste will dissolve into the sauce and thicken it as it cooks.
Simmer Gently: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Check Thickness: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough to your liking, you can add more tomato paste in small increments.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Tomato paste can be slightly acidic, so you may need a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Using tomato paste is a simple and effective way to thicken your pizza sauce while enhancing its taste with a robust tomato essence. It’s a must-try technique for any pizza-making enthusiast.

Mashed Potatoes

Surprisingly, mashed potatoes can work wonders as a thickening agent for your pizza sauce. This technique adds a creamy texture and a subtle potato flavor to your sauce. Here’s how to use mashed potatoes for thickening:

Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Start by making a small batch of mashed potatoes. You won’t need much, just a couple of tablespoons per cup of pizza sauce.
Mix In Gradually: While your pizza sauce is simmering, gradually mix the mashed potatoes into the sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Simmer and Stir: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes while stirring continuously. This will help the mashed potatoes blend seamlessly and thicken the sauce.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not as thick as you’d like, you can add more mashed potatoes a little at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: As always, taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed. The mashed potatoes may introduce a mild potato flavor, so consider this when seasoning.

Using mashed potatoes is a unique and tasty way to thicken your pizza sauce, giving it a creamy twist that sets it apart from the traditional options.

Simmer Uncovered

Sometimes, the key to thickening your pizza sauce is as simple as leaving it uncovered while simmering. This allows excess moisture to evaporate more effectively, resulting in a thicker sauce. Here’s how to do it:

Simmer Without a Lid: As you simmer your pizza sauce, leave the saucepan uncovered. This allows steam to escape, reducing the sauce’s liquid content.
Low Heat: Keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan or burning. A gentle simmer is all you need.
Stir Occasionally: While simmering uncovered, stir the sauce occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Check Consistency: As the sauce simmers, you’ll notice it thickening gradually. Continue simmering until it reaches your preferred thickness.
Taste and Adjust: Once your sauce is thick enough, taste it and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Simmering your pizza sauce uncovered is a straightforward method that requires patience but can lead to a beautifully thick and concentrated sauce that clings perfectly to your pizza.

Grated Cheese

Who would’ve thought that grated cheese could double as a thickening agent for your pizza sauce? It not only adds creaminess but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Here’s how to use grated cheese for thickening:

Choose Your Cheese: Opt for a cheese with a melt-in-your-mouth quality, like Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago. Grate it finely to ensure it blends smoothly into your sauce.
Add Gradually: While your pizza sauce is simmering, gradually sprinkle in the grated cheese. Stir continuously to prevent clumping.
Simmer and Melt: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, giving the cheese a chance to melt into the sauce. Keep stirring to incorporate it fully.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can add more grated cheese a little at a time.
Taste and Adjust: As the cheese melts, it will infuse your sauce with a delightful creamy texture and a cheesy kick. Taste and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Using grated cheese as a thickening agent is a cheesy twist that elevates your pizza sauce to a whole new level of indulgence.

Breadcrumbs

If you’re out of other thickening options, breadcrumbs can come to the rescue. They absorb excess moisture and add a subtle texture to your pizza sauce. Here’s how to use breadcrumbs for thickening:

Select the Right Breadcrumbs: Opt for fine breadcrumbs rather than coarse ones. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference.
Add Gradually: While your pizza sauce simmers, gradually sprinkle in the breadcrumbs. Stir continuously to ensure they blend seamlessly.
Simmer and Absorb: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, giving the breadcrumbs time to absorb excess moisture and thicken the sauce.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can add more breadcrumbs a little at a time.
Taste and Adjust: Breadcrumbs may impart a mild bready flavor, so taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Breadcrumbs are a budget-friendly and pantry-ready solution for thickening your pizza sauce. They not only add thickness but also a subtle texture that can make your sauce stand out.

Roux

If you’re a fan of creamy pizza sauces, a roux might be the perfect choice for thickening. It’s a classic technique used in various culinary applications, and it can lend a delightful richness to your pizza sauce. Here’s how to create a roux for your sauce:

Prepare Equal Parts Flour and Fat: Start by melting equal parts of butter (or another fat of your choice) and all-purpose flour in a saucepan over medium heat. For a cup of sauce, you’ll generally need about one to two tablespoons of each.
Cook Until Golden: Stir the mixture continuously as it cooks. The roux will go through stages, starting with a pale color and gradually turning golden brown. This process usually takes a few minutes.
Add to Sauce: Once your roux reaches a golden hue, remove it from the heat and whisk it into your simmering pizza sauce. Continue to simmer and stir for a few minutes to allow the roux to thicken the sauce.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not as thick as you’d like, you can adjust by making a bit more roux and adding it to the sauce.
Taste and Adjust: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. The roux will add a rich, buttery flavor to the mix.

A roux is a classic and reliable method for thickening pizza sauce, and it brings a touch of gourmet flair to your homemade pies.

Oatmeal

Surprisingly, oatmeal can serve as a secret thickening ingredient for your pizza sauce. It’s a fantastic option if you want to add some heartiness to your sauce while keeping it gluten-free. Here’s how to use oatmeal for thickening:

Select Rolled Oats: Choose rolled oats for this method. They have a neutral flavor and a quick-cooking nature that works well with sauces.
Blend the Oats: Using a food processor or blender, pulse the rolled oats until you have a fine oatmeal powder. You’ll need about one to two tablespoons of oatmeal powder for each cup of sauce.
Add Gradually: While your pizza sauce is simmering, gradually sprinkle in the oatmeal powder. Stir continuously to ensure it incorporates smoothly.
Simmer and Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, giving the oatmeal powder time to absorb moisture and thicken the sauce.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can add more oatmeal powder as needed.
Taste and Adjust: Oatmeal may contribute a subtle nutty flavor, so taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Using oatmeal as a thickening agent is a unique and wholesome way to give your pizza sauce an extra layer of texture and depth. It’s a great choice for those looking to experiment with different ingredients.

Grated Zucchini or Eggplant

If you’re aiming to sneak in some extra veggies and thickness into your pizza sauce, consider using grated zucchini or eggplant. These vegetables not only add thickness but also a hint of natural sweetness and earthy flavor to your sauce. Here’s how to incorporate them:

Select and Prepare: Choose either zucchini or eggplant and grate them using a box grater or food processor. You’ll need about half a cup of grated vegetables for every cup of sauce you want to thicken.
Squeeze Excess Moisture: After grating, place the zucchini or eggplant in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step prevents your sauce from becoming too watery.
Add to Sauce: Stir the grated and squeezed vegetables into your simmering pizza sauce. Allow them to cook and meld with the sauce for a few minutes.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can add more grated vegetables in small increments.
Taste and Adjust: The zucchini or eggplant will add a subtle vegetable flavor. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Using grated zucchini or eggplant is a clever way to add thickness and a touch of freshness to your pizza sauce, making it a hidden gem for health-conscious pizza lovers.

Xanthan Gum

For a gluten-free and incredibly effective thickening agent, consider using xanthan gum. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used sparingly to thicken your pizza sauce without altering its taste or texture significantly. Here’s how to use xanthan gum:

Measure Cautiously: Xanthan gum is potent, so you’ll only need a small amount. Start with a pinch (1/16th of a teaspoon) for every cup of sauce you want to thicken.
Sprinkle and Stir: While your pizza sauce is simmering, sprinkle the xanthan gum evenly over the sauce’s surface. Then, stir vigorously to disperse it.
Simmer and Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes. The xanthan gum will start to thicken the sauce as it heats up.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can add a tiny bit more xanthan gum, but be cautious not to overdo it.
Taste and Adjust: Xanthan gum won’t significantly affect the flavor of your sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Xanthan gum is a powerful thickening agent that’s ideal for those who need a gluten-free solution or want to avoid altering the sauce’s original taste and texture. Just remember, a little goes a long way.

Simmer with Lid Ajar

A simple technique to naturally thicken your pizza sauce is to simmer it with the lid ajar. This method allows excess moisture to escape while retaining the sauce’s flavors. Here’s how to do it:

Simmer with a Gap: As your pizza sauce simmers, leave the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. This lets the sauce reduce and thicken over time.
Low Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer by adjusting the heat to low. This prevents the sauce from sticking or burning.
Stir Occasionally: While simmering with the lid ajar, stir the sauce occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the pan.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. If it’s not thick enough, you can continue simmering until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Once your sauce thickens to your liking, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Simmering with the lid ajar is a straightforward method that allows you to thicken your pizza sauce naturally, resulting in a concentrated and flavorful base for your pizza creations.

Cook with Fresh Herbs

Enhancing your pizza sauce with fresh herbs not only adds flavor but can also help thicken it slightly. Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme not only taste great but also release natural oils that can contribute to thickness. Here’s how to use fresh herbs for both flavor and texture:

Select Your Herbs: Choose your favorite fresh herbs or a combination of them. Wash and finely chop the herbs to release their flavors.
Add to Sauce: Stir the fresh herbs into your simmering pizza sauce. Allow them to cook and infuse their flavors into the sauce.
Simmer and Thicken: As the herbs cook, they release natural oils and moisture, which can help thicken the sauce slightly. Simmer for a few minutes to allow this process.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. While fresh herbs won’t thicken it significantly, they can contribute to texture and flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as necessary to balance the added herbal flavors.

Cooking with fresh herbs not only elevates the taste of your pizza sauce but also adds a subtle thickness that complements your homemade pizza perfectly.

Reduce with Veggies

Boost both the flavor and thickness of your pizza sauce by incorporating vegetables while you reduce it. This method not only adds natural sweetness but also a hearty texture to the sauce. Here’s how to reduce your sauce with veggies:

Select Vegetables: Opt for vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots. Chop them finely or blend them into a puree to easily incorporate them into your sauce.
Cook Alongside Sauce: As your pizza sauce simmers, add the finely chopped or pureed vegetables to the saucepan. Stir them in thoroughly.
Simmer and Reduce: Allow the sauce to simmer with the vegetables for an extended period. The vegetables will release moisture as they cook, and this will gradually thicken the sauce.
Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness. The longer you simmer with the vegetables, the thicker it will become.
Taste and Adjust: Vegetables will contribute a natural sweetness to the sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasonings to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

Reducing your pizza sauce with vegetables is a fantastic way to infuse it with both flavor and thickness. The added nutrients are a bonus, making your homemade pizzas even more wholesome and delicious.

Final Thoughts

In the world of pizza-making, the sauce is the unsung hero that ties all the flavors together. Thickening your pizza sauce doesn’t have to be a daunting task; in fact, it can be a fun and creative culinary experiment. From traditional methods like simmering longer and using cornstarch slurry to unique approaches like grated vegetables and xanthan gum, there are plenty of options to explore.

Remember, the best thickening method for your pizza sauce depends on your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you prefer a more natural approach, consider simmering your sauce with the lid ajar or reducing it with vegetables. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quick fix, ingredients like cornstarch slurry or xanthan gum can come to the rescue.

Ultimately, the key to perfecting your pizza sauce lies in experimentation. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different thickening techniques or try adding a variety of ingredients like grated cheese or fresh herbs to elevate the sauce’s flavor and texture. With these simple methods at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to create the perfect pizza sauce that suits your taste and makes your homemade pizzas truly extraordinary. Happy saucing!

FAQ

Q: Can I use all these thickening methods at once, or should I choose one?

A: While it’s possible to experiment with multiple methods simultaneously, it’s often best to choose one primary method for thickening your pizza sauce. Combining too many thickening agents can lead to undesirable changes in taste and texture. Start with one method, and if you feel it doesn’t achieve the desired thickness, then you can consider adding another, but do so sparingly.

Q: Are there any methods I should avoid for certain types of pizzas?

A: Most thickening methods are versatile and can be used for various pizza styles. However, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. For example, using mashed potatoes or grated vegetables may not be suitable for pizzas with delicate, light flavors, but they can work wonders for heartier pies. Tomato paste or roux may be better choices for classic Margherita or Neapolitan pizzas.

Q: How can I adjust the seasonings after thickening my sauce?

A: Adjusting the seasonings after thickening your pizza sauce is crucial to ensure a well-balanced flavor. Taste the sauce and, if needed, add more salt, pepper, herbs, or other seasonings to achieve the taste you desire. Remember that some thickening agents, like xanthan gum and cornstarch, have neutral flavors, while others, like tomato paste or grated cheese, may introduce subtle changes to the sauce’s taste.

Q: Can I store leftover pizza sauce that I’ve thickened?

A: Yes, you can store leftover thickened pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool before transferring it to the container. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. When reheating, you may need to add a small amount of water or broth to reach your desired consistency, as thickened sauces tend to become thicker when chilled.

Q: Are there any thickening methods that work best for vegan or gluten-free pizzas?

A: Yes, several thickening methods are suitable for vegan or gluten-free pizzas. Options like xanthan gum, grated vegetables, and oatmeal are excellent choices for both vegan and gluten-free diets. Be sure to use plant-based fats like vegan butter if you opt for a roux, and always check the ingredient labels to ensure your thickening agents align with your dietary preferences.

Q: Can I use these methods to thicken store-bought pizza sauce?

A: Absolutely! These methods can be applied to store-bought pizza sauce to achieve your desired thickness and flavor. Simply follow the instructions for the chosen thickening method, but keep in mind that store-bought sauces may already have seasonings, so adjust accordingly. Using these techniques can elevate the quality of your store-bought sauce and make it taste more homemade.

Q: Is there a specific method that works best for deep-dish or stuffed-crust pizzas?

A: For deep-dish or stuffed-crust pizzas, you may want a sauce with a thicker consistency to prevent it from making the crust soggy. Simmering longer, using a roux, or adding xanthan gum can be effective choices. The key is to balance thickness with the overall texture and flavors of your pizza, so it complements the rich and hearty nature of deep-dish or stuffed-crust styles.

Q: Can I use these methods to fix an overly watery pizza sauce?

A: Yes, these methods are excellent for fixing overly watery pizza sauce. Simmering longer, using a thickening agent like cornstarch slurry or xanthan gum, or incorporating grated vegetables can all help reduce excess moisture and thicken the sauce to the desired consistency.

Q: Are there any thickening methods that work better for a spicy pizza sauce?

A: If you want to thicken a spicy pizza sauce while maintaining its heat, using grated cheese or simmering longer are good options. These methods won’t dilute the spiciness of the sauce. Additionally, you can experiment with thickening agents like xanthan gum or roux, but be cautious to ensure they don’t affect the sauce’s spiciness too much.

Q: Can I use these methods to make white pizza sauce thicker?

A: Yes, you can use these methods to thicken white pizza sauce. Whether you’re making an Alfredo or garlic-based sauce, many of the techniques mentioned, such as roux, cornstarch slurry, or even adding grated cheese, can help achieve the desired thickness without compromising the flavor profile of your white pizza sauce.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally over-thicken my pizza sauce?

A: If you accidentally over-thicken your pizza sauce, don’t worry—it’s fixable. Simply add a bit of liquid, such as water, broth, or tomato juice, and stir well. Gradually reintroduce the liquid until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. This method allows you to salvage the sauce without diluting its flavors too much.