Round Table Pizza Sauce Recipe: Secret Flavor Revealed

I’ve cracked the code to Round Table’s signature pizza sauce, and I’m sharing it with you. This recipe delivers the same rich, tangy flavor that makes their pizzas legendary, now in the comfort of your own kitchen.

With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious homemade sauce that’s perfect for pizza night. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for later use.

Ingredients for Round Table Pizza Sauce

Simple ingredients make this signature pizza sauce. Just like Round Table, but homemade.

San Marzano tomatoes make this sauce special. Look for ‘DOP’ certification on the can—it’s worth it. Regular crushed tomatoes work too, but the flavor won’t be as rich. I use Mutti or Cento brands when I can find them. If you see other brands with similar certification, those work great too.

No San Marzano? Regular crushed tomatoes are fine. For a bit more depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes—gives it a nice kick. Fresh herbs? Use three times the amount of fresh oregano and basil. The garlic can be adjusted to taste, but four cloves is the magic number here. Don’t skip the sugar—it balances the acidity.

This sauce keeps for up to 2 weeks in the fridge, or freeze it for 3 months. I portion it into ice cube trays so I can grab just what I need for a quick pizza night. When freezing, label the containers with the date so you know how long it’s been hanging out.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Round Table Pizza Sauce

Here’s the method to create this signature pizza sauce that’s both easy and delicious.

Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

Heat the 2 tbsp Olive Oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the 4 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, as it can quickly become bitter.

The garlic should be soft and aromatic, which will form the base of your sauce. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low to prevent burning.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Spices

Add the 2 cups Crushed Tomatoes, 1 tsp Dried Oregano, 1 tsp Dried Basil, 0.5 tsp Salt, 1 tbsp Sugar, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

The crushed tomatoes should be of high quality, such as San Marzano, for the best flavor. The dried oregano and basil will add depth to the sauce, while the sugar will balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce is ready when it’s thickened and has reduced slightly, creating a rich and intense flavor.

During the simmering process, keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If it starts to thicken too much, you can adjust the heat or add a little water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Finalize and Store

Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. You can then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 6 months.

Before using, give the sauce a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This sauce is now ready to be used on your favorite pizza recipes, and it makes enough for about 4 servings.

Regional Styles of This Recipe

California Style

Round Table Pizza originated in California, so their sauce reflects the state’s fresh, vibrant flavors. I love using San Marzano tomatoes for that authentic California taste. The simplicity of this sauce lets the quality of the tomatoes shine through. For an extra California touch, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. 🔥

New York Influence

While Round Table is West Coast, their sauce has been influenced by traditional New York-style pizza. To give it a Big Apple twist, I sometimes add a bit more sugar to balance the acidity. This creates a smoother flavor profile that New York pizza lovers will appreciate. Some cooks even add a dash of dried fennel for an Italian-American flair.

Italian Roots

The sauce’s Italian heritage is evident in its use of dried oregano and basil. For a more authentic Italian flavor, try using fresh herbs instead – just triple the amount called for in the recipe. This gives the sauce a brighter, more herbaceous taste that’s perfect for traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas.

Modern Twists

To put a modern spin on Round Table’s classic sauce, I like to experiment with different types of tomatoes or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Some cooks even roast their garlic before mincing it for a sweeter, nuttier flavor. These small changes can elevate the sauce and make it your own. For a spicy kick, try adding some chopped fresh chili peppers during the simmering process.

Regional Adaptations

One of the best things about this sauce recipe is its versatility.