Pizza is one of the most beloved foods across the world. From crispy thin crusts to deep dish delights, there is a pizza for everyone. However, the sauce is an essential ingredient that can make or break a pizza. Here are some of the best sauces to put on pizza that will elevate your pizza game and tantalize your taste buds.
Classic Tomato Sauce: The Perfect Base for Any Pizza
The classic tomato sauce is the go-to option for most pizzas, and for good reason. Tomato sauce provides a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with any toppings you desire. The sauce comprises tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
To make the perfect tomato sauce, you need to start with high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes, which are sweeter and less acidic. Crush them by hand, and add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 30-40 minutes until it thickens. Spread the sauce on your pizza dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Did you know that tomato sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. So, not only are you enjoying a tasty pizza, but you’re also getting some health benefits.
Another great thing about tomato sauce is its versatility. You can use it not only as a pizza base but also as a pasta sauce, a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or a topping for grilled chicken or fish. You can even customize the sauce by adding herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme, or by using different types of tomatoes like cherry or heirloom.
Spice Up Your Pizza with Hot Sauce
If you love spicy food, then hot sauce on pizza is a match made in heaven. There are many commercial hot sauces available in the market, or you can make your own by blending hot chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, and salt. Spread a thin layer of hot sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked chicken or shrimp, bell peppers, and onions. Bake the pizza until the crust is crunchy and golden brown. The hot sauce adds a kick of heat to the pizza, making it a perfect option for those who love bold flavors.
Hot sauce on pizza not only adds a spicy kick, but it also has health benefits. Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, has been shown to boost metabolism and reduce inflammation. Additionally, hot sauce can help clear sinuses and relieve congestion, making it a great option for those suffering from colds or allergies.
If you’re looking for a unique twist on hot sauce pizza, try adding some sweet and savory toppings. Pineapple, bacon, and jalapenos make for a delicious combination that balances the heat of the hot sauce with the sweetness of the pineapple and saltiness of the bacon. Or, try drizzling honey over the hot sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor explosion.
The Creamy Goodness of Alfredo Sauce on Pizza
Alfredo sauce is a creamy and rich sauce made with Parmesan cheese, butter, heavy cream, and garlic. It is a fantastic alternative to tomato sauce and pairs well with chicken, shrimp, or bacon. Spread the Alfredo sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked chicken, spinach, and mushrooms, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
One of the great things about Alfredo sauce is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give it a little kick, or you can use different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, Alfredo sauce can be used as a dip for breadsticks or as a sauce for pasta dishes.
While Alfredo sauce is delicious, it is also high in calories and fat. If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can try using a low-fat version of the sauce or substituting it with a tomato-based sauce. Another option is to use a cauliflower-based Alfredo sauce, which is lower in calories and provides a serving of vegetables.
BBQ Sauce: A Tangy Twist on Pizza Toppings
BBQ sauce on pizza is a popular variation that adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the traditional pizza. Commercial BBQ sauces are widely available in the market, but you can also make your own by mixing ketchup, mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread the BBQ sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked sausage, bacon, onions, and peppers. Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and golden brown.
Another great way to use BBQ sauce on pizza is to make a BBQ chicken pizza. Simply spread the BBQ sauce on the pizza dough, add cooked and shredded chicken, sliced red onions, and mozzarella cheese. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add some chopped cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of flavor. BBQ chicken pizza is a delicious and easy way to switch up your pizza game.
Pesto Sauce: A Fresh and Flavorful Alternative to Tomato Sauce
Pesto sauce is a fresh and flavorful option for pizza that blends basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It is perfect for vegetarians and pairs well with tomatoes, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese. Spread the pesto sauce on your pizza dough, add sliced tomatoes, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Not only is pesto sauce a delicious option for pizza, but it can also be used as a versatile ingredient in many other dishes. Try mixing it with pasta for a quick and easy meal, or use it as a marinade for chicken or fish. You can even spread it on a sandwich for an extra burst of flavor. With its fresh and vibrant taste, pesto sauce is a great addition to any kitchen.
Garlic Oil: A Simple and Delicious Pizza Sauce Option
Garlic oil is a simple and delicious option that packs a ton of flavor. To make garlic oil, infuse olive oil with garlic cloves and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. Spread the garlic oil on your pizza dough, add cooked chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese. Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and golden brown. The garlic oil adds a mouthwatering aroma and savory flavor to the pizza.
Not only is garlic oil a tasty pizza sauce option, but it also has potential health benefits. Garlic has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help boost the immune system and fight off infections. Additionally, garlic has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol levels. So, not only can you enjoy a delicious pizza with garlic oil, but you may also be doing your body some good!
Ranch Dressing: The Surprising Pizza Sauce You Need to Try
Ranch dressing might seem like an odd choice for pizza sauce, but its tangy and creamy flavors make it a delicious option. Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on your pizza dough, add cooked bacon, chicken, and tomatoes. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The ranch dressing adds a zesty twist to the pizza, making it a perfect option for those who love experimenting with flavors.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: For Those Who Like It Spicy
Buffalo wing sauce is a popular sauce used on chicken wings, but it also works well as a pizza sauce for those who love spicy flavors. To make buffalo wing sauce, mix hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar. Spread the buffalo sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked chicken, blue cheese, and celery. Bake the pizza until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Salsa: A Mexican-Inspired Pizza Sauce Option
If you want to switch up your pizza game, salsa is an excellent option. Salsa is a popular Mexican sauce made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeño peppers, and cilantro. Spread the salsa on your pizza dough, add cooked ground beef, black beans, and corn. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and gooey. The salsa adds a spicy and zesty flavor to the pizza, making it a perfect option for those who love Mexican cuisine.
Hoisin Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Addition to Your Pizza Toppings
Hoisin sauce is a sweet and savory sauce used in Chinese cuisine. It pairs well with pork, chicken, and vegetables. Spread the hoisin sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked sliced pork, mushrooms, and green onions. Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and golden brown. The hoisin sauce adds a unique and delicious flavor to the pizza.
Sriracha Mayo: An Unexpected but Delicious Pizza Sauce Option
Sriracha mayo is a creamy and spicy sauce made with mayo and sriracha hot sauce. Spread a thin layer of sriracha mayo on your pizza dough, add cooked shrimp, pineapple, and red onions. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The sriracha mayo adds a delightful kick of heat to the pizza.
Mushroom Gravy: A Vegetarian-Friendly Option for Your Pizza
Mushroom gravy is a vegetarian-friendly option that adds a savory and earthy flavor to the pizza. To make mushroom gravy, sauté mushrooms, onions, garlic, and thyme. Add vegetable broth, flour, and whisk until the gravy thickens. Spread the mushroom gravy on your pizza dough, add caramelized onions, goat cheese, and arugula. Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and golden brown.
Three-Cheese Blend: A Cheese-Based Alternative to Traditional Tomato Sauces
If you’re looking for a cheese-based alternative to traditional tomato sauces, try a three-cheese blend. Mix equal parts of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Spread the cheese blend on your pizza dough, add cooked sausage, bell peppers, and onions. Bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and gooey.
White Wine Cream Sauce: For Those Who Love Creamy, Rich Flavors on Their Pizza
White wine cream sauce is a rich and creamy option perfect for those who love bold flavors. To make the sauce, simmer white wine, heavy cream, butter, and garlic. Spread the white wine cream sauce on your pizza dough, add cooked shrimp, mushrooms, and spinach. Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and golden brown.
In conclusion, the sauce is an essential component of pizza that can elevate your pizza game to new heights. From classic tomato sauce to unexpected options like hoisin sauce and ranch dressing, these sauces will add flavor and depth to your pizzas. Try different sauces and toppings to find your perfect pizza combination. Enjoy!
