Canned pizza sauce is a convenient pantry staple to have on hand for homemade pizza nights. But instead of buying it from the store, why not make your own canned pizza sauce at home? Not only is it simple and easy to make, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.

To make your own canned pizza sauce, you will need a few basic ingredients such as tomatoes, garlic, onion, herbs, and spices. You can use fresh tomatoes if they are in season, but canned tomatoes work just as well and are readily available all year round.

Start by sautéing some minced garlic and diced onion in a large pot with a bit of olive oil. Once they are fragrant and translucent, add in your tomatoes. If you are using canned tomatoes, make sure to use whole, peeled tomatoes and break them up with a spoon as they cook.

Next, add in your herbs and spices. A classic pizza sauce typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also add a bit of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Simmer the sauce over low heat for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, it is ready to be canned. Sterilize your canning jars and lids, then ladle the hot sauce into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, then seal with the lids and process in a water bath canner according to the recommended time for your altitude.

Homemade canned pizza sauce will keep for up to a year when properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place. When you are ready to use it, simply open a jar and spread the sauce over your pizza dough, then add your favorite toppings and bake until bubbly and golden brown.

Not only is homemade canned pizza sauce easy to make, but it also tastes infinitely better than anything you can buy at the store. You can adjust the seasonings to your liking and even add in extra ingredients like roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or olives to customize it to your taste. So next time you’re craving homemade pizza, try making your own canned pizza sauce for a delicious and personalized touch to your meal.