Grimaldi’s Pizza Sauce Recipe: Authentic Brooklyn-Style Flavor

I’ve reverse-engineered Grimaldi’s famous pizza sauce to bring authentic Brooklyn-style flavor to your home kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of their classic coal-fired pizza with a simple yet precise method.

The result is a rich, tangy sauce that enhances your pizza without overpowering it. With just a few ingredients and 15 minutes of simmering, you’ll have a sauce that’s remarkably close to the original.

Ingredients for Grimaldi’s Pizza Sauce

Simple, authentic ingredients make all the difference in this classic pizza sauce.

San Marzano tomatoes are non-negotiable here—their sweet-tart flavor and low water content create that perfect balance. Look for certified San Marzano from Agro Sarnese-Nocerino protected designation of origin. I’ve tried other canned tomatoes, but they just don’t deliver the same depth.

No San Marzano? You can substitute with other crushed tomatoes, but look for low-acid varieties. The garlic can be adjusted to taste—some like it strong, some prefer it subtle. If you’re using fresh oregano, use three times the amount called for here. The olive oil adds richness, so don’t skip it.

This sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days or freezes for 3 months. I portion it into ice cube trays for single servings—perfect for weeknight pizzas. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw what you need or heat it straight from frozen.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Grimaldi’s Pizza Sauce

Here’s the method for creating authentic Grimaldi’s-style pizza sauce – simple yet packed with flavor.

Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

Heat the 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it should be soft and aromatic, not bitter.

I like to keep the heat low to prevent the garlic from browning too quickly. This slow cooking process brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic is lightly golden and the oil is fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the 2 cups Crushed San Marzano Tomatoes, 0.5 tsp Dried Oregano, 0.25 tsp Salt, 0.125 tsp Black Pepper, and 0.25 tsp Sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

The crushed San Marzano tomatoes are the star of this sauce, providing a rich, intense flavor. The dried oregano adds a hint of earthiness, while the salt, black pepper, and sugar balance out the acidity. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Reduce the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce has reduced slightly and has a rich, thick consistency.

During this time, keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If it starts to stick, stir more frequently or reduce the heat slightly. The slow simmer is crucial for developing that authentic Grimaldi’s flavor.

Step 4: Finish and Store the Sauce

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. You can use it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Before using, give the sauce a good stir. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a little water. This sauce is now ready to be used on your pizza, pasta, or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy the authentic taste of Grimaldi’s in the comfort of your own home!

Essential Equipment for grimaldis pizza sauce

Essential Pots and Pans

For making Grimaldi’s-style pizza sauce, you’ll need a medium saucepan that can handle gentle simmering. I recommend a 3-quart stainless steel saucepan with a heavy bottom – it distributes heat evenly and prevents scorching. Avoid thin aluminum pans as they can cause hotspots.

Utensils for Preparation

You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife for mincing the garlic cloves. I prefer a 6-inch chef’s knife with a comfortable handle for precise control. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is essential for stirring the sauce as it simmers.

Storage Containers

For storing your pizza sauce, I recommend using glass containers with airtight lids. Mason jars work perfectly for this purpose. Make sure they’re clean and dry before filling. You can also use plastic containers or freezer-safe bags for longer storage.

Immersion Blender (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother sauce, an immersion blender is handy. It allows you to blend the sauce right in the saucepan without transferring it to a blender. This tool is optional but can be useful for achieving a uniform texture.

Additional Tools

A cutting board is necessary for mincing garlic. I prefer a wooden cutting board as it’s gentle on knives. Having a measuring spoons set and measuring cups on hand ensures you add the right amounts of ingredients.

Tips for Equipment Care

After cooking, clean your saucepan and utensils immediately to prevent sauce stains. For stainless steel pans, avoid using abrasive cleaners. Store your equipment properly to maintain its quality and longevity.