Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your homemade pizza nights, look no further! This Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce is a game-changer. It’s thick, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced—just like the iconic sauce you know and love from Pizza Hut. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner on a busy weeknight or impressing family and friends at a gathering, this sauce will steal the show!

What makes this recipe special is not just its fantastic flavor but also how easy it is to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can recreate that signature taste right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in other dishes too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This sauce comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute pizza cravings.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory notes that make this sauce so irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and have it ready for your next pizza night!
• Versatile Use: Not only great on pizza, but it also works well as a dip or pasta sauce.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples without any added preservatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how straightforward these ingredients are! They’re all wholesome items you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce:

For the Sauce

• 15 ounces canned tomato sauce
• 6 ounces canned tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for subtle smokiness)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh basil or oregano for an even more vibrant flavor.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes if you like your sauce with a kick.
• Sweeten It Up: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra teaspoon of sugar.
• Blend It Smooth: For a creamier texture, blend the sauce before using it on your pizza.

How to Make Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir until smooth. This step sets the base for our delicious sauce and ensures that everything blends nicely together.

Step 2: Add Spices and Oil

Add olive oil, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, marjoram, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Each spice plays a crucial role in developing that rich flavor profile we all love about Pizza Hut Sauce.

Step 3: Simmer for Flavor

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The gentle simmer allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while thickening up beautifully.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. For an ultra-smooth finish, use an immersion blender to blend until silky.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Use immediately on your favorite pizza or let cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Trust me; having this flavorful sauce ready to go will bring joy every time you make pizza!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce

Creating the perfect pizza sauce is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some pro tips to help you nail it every time!

• Choose quality tomatoes: Using high-quality canned tomatoes can make a significant difference in flavor. Look for brands that use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best taste.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer enhances the flavors. The longer it simmers, the more integrated and complex the taste becomes.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more sugar. This balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and can mimic that signature taste you’re aiming for.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice levels according to your preference. Adding extra herbs or spices can personalize the sauce to your liking.

• Use fresh herbs when available: If you have fresh oregano or basil on hand, substitute them for dried ones. Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor that can elevate your sauce even further.

How to Serve Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce

This delicious Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce is versatile and can be used in various ways! Here are some ideas on how to present this fantastic sauce at your next pizza night.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
• Grated vegan cheese: For those who love that cheesy finish, shredded vegan cheese melts beautifully and complements the sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pizza sauce. The crunchiness and garlic flavor make every bite delightful.
• Caesar salad (vegan): A crisp Caesar salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy vegan dressing balances out the richness of pizza.
• Stuffed mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with breadcrumbs, veggies, and Italian seasoning make an excellent appetizer alongside your homemade pizza.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds a healthy touch to your meal while bringing out their natural sweetness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well-equipped to whip up an unforgettable pizza night experience! Enjoy every bite as you savor that homemade goodness!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have it ready for your next pizza night or any other dish that calls for a delicious tomato sauce.

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The sauce will keep well for about 5 to 7 days.
• Make sure to let the sauce cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the sauce will expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and use within 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

What makes this Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce special?

This sauce replicates the iconic taste of Pizza Hut’s signature pizza sauce with a perfect balance of sweetness and spices. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can! For a fresher flavor, use diced fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them down until they’re soft before adding other ingredients to create that thick texture.

How long does Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this sauce can last up to 5 to 7 days in your refrigerator.

Can I add more spices to my Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices like oregano or basil according to your taste. A little extra garlic powder can also enhance the flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce as much as I do! It’s such a delightful way to elevate your homemade pizzas and impress everyone around your dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family night or just indulging yourself, this sauce is sure to bring comfort and joy. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share how it turns out!