Running out of pizza sauce doesn’t have to mean disaster for your homemade pizza night. You’ve got the dough rolled out, the cheese shredded, and the toppings ready to go. But as you reach for the jar of pizza sauce, you realize it’s empty.
That tangy, herby base you were counting on is missing. Before you call for delivery, take a breath. Pizza sauce’s flavor can be recreated with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Pizza sauce, with its rich tomato base and blend of herbs, is the foundation of a great pizza. But whether you’re out of sauce, avoiding store-bought options, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same delicious results.
From pantry staples to creative twists, here’s how to keep your pizza night on track—no last-minute store runs required.

7 Easy Substitutes for Pizza Sauce
Pizza sauce’s charm lies in its tangy tomato base and aromatic herbs. These substitutes mimic its flavor while adding their own flair. Perfect for pizzas, flatbreads, or even dipping sauces, here’s how to pivot without missing a beat:
1. Marinara Sauce: The Classic Stand-In
Marinara sauce is the closest match to pizza sauce, with its tomato base and garlic-herb flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, and you’re good to go.
This substitute works beautifully for any pizza. I once used marinara for a last-minute pizza night, and no one noticed the difference. For extra flavor, add a pinch of oregano or red pepper flakes.
Pro tip: Simmer the marinara with fresh basil for a more authentic pizza sauce taste.
If you’re exploring alternatives, you may also enjoy reading about the best marinara sauce substitutes.
2. Tomato Paste + Water: The Pantry Rescue
Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato base that can be thinned into a sauce. Mix 2 tablespoons tomato paste with ¼ cup water and season with garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of sugar.
This swap is perfect for when you’re in a pinch. My friend used this combo for a quick pizza, and the result was surprisingly good. For extra richness, add a splash of olive oil.
Fun twist: Stir in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for depth.
For more tomato-based alternatives, check out these tomato paste substitutes.
3. Pesto: The Herby Alternative
Pesto brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor to your pizza. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s richer and more intense than traditional pizza sauce.
This substitute shines on white pizzas or veggie-loaded pies. I used pesto for a last-minute pizza, and the vibrant flavor was a hit. For a milder taste, mix pesto with a little olive oil.
Pro tip: Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
If you’re curious about other herb-based sauces, explore these pesto substitutes.
4. Alfredo Sauce: The Creamy Swap
Alfredo sauce is a rich, creamy alternative to tomato-based pizza sauce. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but keep the toppings light to balance the richness.
This swap is perfect for chicken or spinach pizzas. My cousin used Alfredo for a white pizza, and the creamy texture was a crowd-pleaser. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder.
Watch out: Alfredo sauce can be heavy, so use it sparingly.
For more creamy alternatives, check out these Alfredo sauce substitutes.
5. Salsa: The Spicy Twist
Salsa brings a bold, spicy kick to your pizza. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust.
This substitute works well for Mexican-inspired pizzas. I used salsa for a taco pizza, and the spicy flavor was a hit. For extra texture, mix in some black beans or corn.
Fun twist: Use mango salsa for a sweet and spicy combo.
If you’re exploring salsa alternatives, you might enjoy these salsa substitutes.
6. Olive Oil + Garlic: The Simple Base
Olive oil and garlic make a simple yet flavorful base for your pizza. Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with minced garlic.
This swap is perfect for focaccia-style pizzas. My neighbor used this combo for a garlic bread pizza, and the result was delicious. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Pro tip: Infuse the olive oil with rosemary or thyme for an herby twist.
For more oil-based alternatives, explore these olive oil substitutes.
7. BBQ Sauce: The Bold & Smoky Option
BBQ sauce brings a smoky, tangy flavor to your pizza. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but pair it with toppings like chicken, onions, or bacon.
This substitute shines on BBQ chicken pizzas. My brother used BBQ sauce for a game-day pizza, and the smoky flavor was a hit. For extra depth, add a drizzle of honey.
Fun twist: Use a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
If you’re diving into bold flavors, you might find these BBQ sauce substitutes helpful.

Kimberly Baxter is the proud owner of the food blog Eatdelights.com. A self-proclaimed foodie, Kimberly loves to cook and share her recipes with others. She has been blogging about food since 2010 and has amassed a following of loyal readers.
Her recipes are creative, delicious, and easy to follow. In addition to her blog, Kimberly also enjoys writing for other publications.