Introduction
Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe is famous for its deep, buttery crust, gooey cheese, and, most importantly, its rich and flavorful sauce. The sauce is the heart of the pizza, providing a bold, tangy, and slightly sweet taste that balances perfectly with the other ingredients. If you want to make an authentic Chicago pizza at home, nailing the sauce is essential.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the Chicago pizza sauce recipe, covering everything from its origins to a step-by-step preparation method. We’ll also explore the best ways to serve it, some health benefits, and nutritional information to help you make the most out of this classic sauce.
What Is Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe?
Chicago pizza sauce is a robust, slightly chunky tomato sauce that is simmered to perfection with herbs, spices, and seasonings. Unlike traditional pizza sauces that are often raw or lightly cooked, Chicago-style sauce is slow-cooked, resulting in a thick, rich, and aromatic flavor.
This sauce is traditionally used in Chicago deep-dish and stuffed pizzas, but it can also be used on thin-crust pizzas, pasta, or as a dipping sauce.
The Origin of Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe
The Chicago-style pizza traces its origins back to 1943 when Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo founded Pizzeria Uno in Chicago. They introduced the world to deep-dish pizza, which had a thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, and a signature tomato sauce that was unlike anything else at the time.
Unlike New York-style pizza, where the sauce is placed directly on the dough, Chicago-style pizza is layered differently. The cheese goes first, followed by toppings, and the sauce is spread on top. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Over the years, different variations of the sauce have emerged, but the traditional recipe remains a staple in Chicago-style pizzerias.
Ingredients for Authentic Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe
To make an authentic Chicago-style pizza sauce, you’ll need a blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic seasonings.
Essential Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Canned whole San Marzano tomatoes | 28 oz (1 can) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ small onion |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ½ tsp (optional) |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Water | ¼ cup |
These ingredients will create a thick, flavorful sauce that embodies the authentic taste of Chicago-style pizza.
Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right kitchen tools to make the sauce efficiently.
- Medium saucepan – for simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – for stirring and preventing burning.
- Blender or food processor (optional) – if you prefer a smoother sauce.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and garlic.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient measurements.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe
Now, let’s get to the heart of the recipe: making the sauce from scratch.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Open the canned tomatoes and crush them by hand or in a blender for a chunkier or smoother consistency.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and ¼ cup of water to the saucepan.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The sauce will thicken and develop a rich flavor.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. If it’s too tangy, add a pinch more sugar.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the sauce slightly.
Step 6: Let It Cool and Store
- Allow the sauce to cool before using it on pizza.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits of Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe
While pizza is often seen as indulgent, the sauce itself provides several health benefits:
- Rich in Lycopene: Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
- Low in Calories: A serving of pizza sauce is relatively low in calories compared to other toppings.
- Boosts Immunity: Garlic and onions contain compounds that help strengthen the immune system.
- No Artificial Preservatives: Unlike store-bought sauces, homemade sauce is free from additives.
Additional Tips for the Perfect Sauce
- Use San Marzano Tomatoes: They are naturally sweeter and less acidic, making them perfect for pizza sauce.
- Slow Simmer for Maximum Flavor: The longer the sauce simmers, the richer it tastes.
- Adjust Consistency as Needed: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
- Don’t Skip the Sugar: A small amount balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Best Way to Serve Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe
- Deep-Dish Pizza: Spread a thick layer over cheese and toppings before baking.
- Stuffed Pizza: Used as a top layer in Chicago-style stuffed pizza.
- Thin-Crust Pizza: Works well for a hearty tomato base.
- Pasta Sauce: Can double as a rich pasta sauce.
- Dipping Sauce: Perfect for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or garlic knots.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (¼ Cup) |
| Calories | 50 |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Conclusion
Making an authentic Chicago Pizza Sauce Recipe at home is simple and rewarding. This slow-simmered, herb-infused sauce brings out the best in deep-dish pizza and other dishes. With the right ingredients and technique, you can recreate the rich, savory flavor of classic Chicago-style pizza in your kitchen.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use Roma or San Marzano tomatoes, blanch them, and blend them before simmering.
2. How long can I store homemade pizza sauce?
It lasts 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.
3. Can I use this sauce for thin-crust pizza?
Absolutely! It works for any pizza style, though deep-dish is traditional.
4. What if my sauce is too acidic?
Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
5. Can I make this sauce spicier?
Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.