Shakey’s Pizza Sauce Recipe: Authentic Flavor in Minutes

I’ve cracked the code to Shakey’s famous pizza sauce with this simple recipe that delivers authentic flavor in minutes. Using common pantry ingredients, you’ll create a rich, tangy sauce that tastes just like the original.

This sauce recipe is perfect for homemade pizzas, dipping bread, or as a pasta topping – and it keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks. Let’s make it!

Ingredients for Shakey’s Pizza Sauce

Simple pantry ingredients create this rich, tangy pizza sauce in just minutes.

For authentic Shakey’s flavor, San Marzano tomatoes are ideal—their low acidity makes a richer sauce. Most grocery stores carry them near the canned goods. If you’re feeling fancy, grab some fresh basil for garnish, but dried works great too. The garlic can be minced ahead and stored in olive oil for up to a week.

No San Marzano? Regular crushed tomatoes work, but look for ones with no added salt so you can control seasoning. Want a bit more depth? Penzeys has great dried oregano and basil. For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender right in the pot. The sugar helps balance the tomatoes’ natural acidity—don’t skip it.

This sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks. Store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Freeze portions in ice cube trays for 3-4 months—perfect for future pizza nights or pasta sauces.

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

Creating this authentic pizza sauce is straightforward and quick, yielding delicious results every time.

Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

Heat the 2 tbsp Olive Oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the 4 cloves Garlic Cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.

Stir the garlic occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent it from sticking to the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when the aroma fills your kitchen and the garlic turns a light golden color.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Spices

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

The crushed tomatoes should be of high quality, such as San Marzano, for the best flavor. The dried oregano and basil add a traditional Italian flavor, while the sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. This slow simmering process is crucial for developing the deep, rich flavor characteristic of Shakey’s pizza sauce.

As the sauce simmers, keep an eye on its consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it with a little water. The ideal consistency is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.

Step 4: Finalize and Store

Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. Let it cool completely before using it on your pizza. If you’re not using it immediately, you can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Before using stored sauce, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This sauce is not only perfect for pizza but can also be used as a dipping sauce or a base for other Italian dishes.

Make-Ahead Tips for Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage Tips

Store your Shakey’s pizza sauce in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. This simple step keeps the sauce fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. I like to use glass containers with tight-fitting lids.

Freezer Storage Strategies

For longer storage, freeze the sauce in ice cube trays for convenient portioning. Once frozen, transfer the sauce cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage up to 3-4 months. This method is perfect for future pizza nights or as a base for other Italian dishes. ❄️

Canning Considerations

If you’re comfortable with canning, you can preserve the sauce using a water bath canner. This method allows for longer storage at room temperature. Ensure you follow safe canning practices to avoid contamination. Always check your jars for proper sealing before storing.

Reheating Your Sauce

When you’re ready to use your stored sauce, simply reheat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can thin it with a little water or olive oil to achieve the desired consistency. This makes it ready for use on pizzas or as a dipping sauce. 🔥

Labeling and Organization

Using Leftover Sauce

Shakey’s pizza sauce isn’t just for pizza! Use it as a base for pasta sauces, a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a topping for meatballs. The versatility of this sauce makes it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Get creative and enjoy! 🍝