Tired of the same old tomato-based pizza sauce? Looking for something new to spice up your pizza night?
I’ve explored 20 fantastic pizza sauce alternatives that transform your pizza from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether you’re a fan of creamy, zesty, or savory flavors, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s face it: while traditional tomato sauce is a classic, sometimes our taste buds crave variety. That’s where these alternatives come in.
From the rich, nutty flavor of pesto to the creamy decadence of Alfredo sauce, each option offers a unique twist on the traditional pizza experience.
Imagine a slice of pizza with garlic-infused olive oil or a tangy spread of chimichurri. Even better, think about the unexpected kick of buffalo sauce or the subtle elegance of creme fraiche.
I’ve tried them all to keep my pizza nights exciting, and I’m thrilled to share these discoveries with you.
So, let’s dive into the world of pizza sauce alternatives and keep your pizza game strong!
20 Unique Pizza Sauce Alternatives
There’s a whole world of flavors and ingredients to explore regarding pizza sauce. We will discuss the 20 best alternatives to traditional tomato sauce to take your pizzas to the next level.
1. Pesto
One of the most versatile and flavorful alternatives to traditional pizza sauce is pesto. It is made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Pesto adds a burst of fresh and vibrant flavors to your cheese pizza. Combining herbs, nuts, and cheese creates a rich, aromatic sauce that pairs well with various toppings.
To make basil pesto, blend the fresh leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. The result is a thick and fragrant sauce serving as a great pizza base.
Spread a thin layer of pesto on your pizza dough below the cheese, and top it with your favorite ingredients. The basil pesto adds a deliciously herbaceous note to your pizza, making it a standout choice for any pizza night.
2. Alfredo Sauce
If you’re looking for a creamy and indulgent alternative to traditional pizza sauce, look no further than Alfredo sauce.
Originating from Italian cuisine, Alfredo sauce is made with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This rich and velvety sauce adds a luxurious touch to your pizza and creates a cheesy base.
Melt butter in a saucepan and add minced garlic to make your Alfredo sauce. Cook until fragrant, then whisk in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese—season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
The result is a decadently creamy sauce that can be spread onto your pizza dough as a white base.
Alfredo sauce pairs particularly well with minimal yet carefully chosen toppings. Consider topping your pizza with ingredients that complement the creamy and cheesy flavor of the sauce, such as spinach, artichoke hearts, or grilled chicken.
The Alfredo sauce and these toppings create a deliciously indulgent white pizza that will impress you.
3. Garlic-Infused Olive Oil
Sometimes, simplicity is the key to perfection. A garlic-infused olive oil can add a subtle yet flavorful base to your pizza, allowing the other ingredients to shine. It’s a great way to enhance the flavor of your pizza crust and create a deliciously aromatic experience.
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over low heat and add minced garlic to make garlic-infused olive oil. Cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Strain the oil to remove the garlic and let it cool before using it as a base for your pizza.
When using garlic-infused olive oil, less is more. A slight drizzle goes a long way in adding a subtle garlicky flavor to your pizza. It’s a great way to enhance the natural flavors of the toppings without overpowering them.
Whether making a classic Margherita pizza or experimenting with unique combinations, garlic-infused olive oil is a simple yet delicious alternative sauce. For an even more flavorful option, add olive oil to your garlic-infused oil for a richer and more complex taste.
4. Tapenade
Tapenade is an excellent alternative to traditional pizza sauce if you like Mediterranean flavors.
Made with a base of minced olives and capers, tapenade adds a bold and tasty flavor to your pizza. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a salty and savory combination.
To make a tapenade, combine olives, capers, garlic, olive oil, and optional ingredients like anchovies or herbs.
The result is a thick, spreadable paste called olive tapenade with a robust flavor profile. Spread a thin layer of tapenade onto your pizza dough, allowing the flavors to infuse into the crust as it bakes.
Tapenade pairs well with various toppings, especially those complementing Mediterranean flavors. Add ingredients like red pepper flakes, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or feta cheese.
The tapenade and these toppings combine a pizza bursting with bold and savory flavors reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine.
5. Chimichurri
Try chimichurri sauce as an alternative to traditional pizza sauce for a unique spin on pesto with a South American kick.
Chimichurri is a vibrant herbaceous sauce made with fresh parsley, garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. It adds freshness and tanginess to your pizza, creating a delightful flavor.
To make chimichurri sauce, blend fresh parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and olive oil. The result is a vibrant green sauce that can be used as a base for your pizza.
Spread a thin layer of chimichurri sauce onto your pizza dough, allowing the flavors to infuse into the crust as it bakes.
Chimichurri pairs particularly well with toppings that complement its tangy and herbaceous flavors. Add ingredients like grilled chicken, red onions, bell peppers, or goat cheese.
Combining chimichurri sauce and these toppings creates a pizza with fresh and zesty flavors, giving it a unique South American twist.
7. Cashew Cream
Cashew cream, a luxurious pizza sauce alternative, adds a velvety richness to your pies. Blending soaked cashews with water creates a smooth texture akin to traditional sauces.
Its nutty flavor complements various toppings like caramelized onions or feta cheese. Season it with garlic powder and nutritional yeast for added depth.
Elevate your homemade pizza night with this dairy-free option that caters to diverse palates. Cashew cream offers a creamy base that harmonizes with Mediterranean flavors, making it a versatile addition to your pizza sauce repertoire.
8. Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce, famous for its spicy kick, adds a unique zing to your pizza. The tangy flavor of buffalo sauce pairs excellently with chicken or veggies for a vegetarian option.
Its vibrant hue and robust taste make it a standout alternative to traditional pizza sauces. A drizzle of buffalo sauce on your pizza can elevate it to a new level of deliciousness, especially when paired with creamy blue cheese.
Keep some extra blue cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce nearby to pour irresistible flavor on top of your buffalo sauce pizza whenever you’d like. Try buffalo sauce for a pizza night with a twist!
9. Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna; it adds a creamy richness to pizza. Spread a thin layer on the dough for a smooth texture and rich flavor.
Pair it with toppings like caramelized onions, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes for a delicious twist. The mild, slightly sweet taste of ricotta cheese complements both traditional and unconventional pizza combinations.
Give your homemade pizza a gourmet touch using ricotta cheese as a base sauce. Enjoy the velvety goodness of ricotta and mozzarella cheese in every bite.
10. Arrabbiata Sauce
Arrabbiata sauce is a fiery alternative to traditional pizza sauce with its spicy kick from red pepper flakes.
Originating from Italian cuisine, this tomato-based sauce packs a flavorful punch with garlic and olive oil. Its vibrant red hue adds visual appeal to your pizza creations.
Pair it with toppings like caramelized onions or black olives to complement the heat. Using arrabbiata sauce on your pizza will infuse it with Mediterranean flavors, taking your homemade pizza night to the next level.
Enjoy the zesty tang of arrabbiata sauce for a unique twist on your favorite pies.
11. Romesco
Romesco sauce, originating from Catalan cuisine, is a flavorful blend of roasted red peppers, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and almonds. Its rich taste with a hint of smokiness adds depth to any dish.
This versatile sauce can be a delicious alternative to traditional pizza sauce, providing a unique Mediterranean twist to your pies.
Combining flavors like sweet red peppers, nutty almonds, and aromatic garlic creates a gourmet experience. That will elevate your pizza to new culinary heights.
12. Muhammara
Muhammara, a Middle Eastern delight, offers a unique twist as a pizza sauce alternative. Made from red peppers, walnuts, and olive oil, it gives your pies a rich, smoky flavor.
The blend of flavors from the red pepper, garlic, and a hint of lemon juice creates a distinctive taste profile.
Muhammara’s versatility allows you to explore a fusion of Mediterranean flavors on your pizza, elevating it to a gourmet experience. Try Muhammara for a taste journey that combines tradition and innovation.
13. White Base Sauce
White base sauce adds a creamy twist to traditional pizza, offering a delightful alternative to classic tomato-based options.
This velvety sauce, often made with ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and parmesan cheese, creates a smooth texture that complements a variety of toppings.
Whether you choose a simple white pizza or get creative with additions like caramelized onions or feta cheese, this sauce is versatile for pizza night.
Elevate your homemade pizza with a white base for a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Enjoy experimenting with this rich and savory option!
14. BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce is a savory and tangy alternative to traditional pizza sauce. Its smoky flavors add a unique twist to your pies, perfect for those craving extra zest.
Using BBQ sauce as a great base sauce can elevate your homemade pizza to a new level. Whether paired with pulled pork, chicken, or veggies, this sauce brings a touch of the grill to your pizza night.
Experiment with different toppings like caramelized onions, black olives, or even pineapple for a taste sensation that will impress your guests.
15. Vegetable Purees
Vegetable purees are a fantastic way to add a healthy twist to your pizza sauce. By blending fresh vegetables like roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or even butternut squash, you can create a flavorful and nutritious base for your pizza.
These purees bring vibrant colors to your pizza and enrich it with a subtle sweetness and unique texture. Try a pumpkin and beet puree with garlic, basil, and other spices for a red sauce alternative.
Experiment with different combinations of vegetable purees to discover your favorite flavor profiles and elevate your pizza game to a new level.
16. Cheese Sauce/Rarebit
Consider using a decadent cheese sauce or rarebit to twist traditional pizza sauce. These creamy alternatives add richness and depth to your pizza, elevating its flavor profile.
Cheese sauce offers a smooth texture with a blend of rich cheeses, while rarebit brings a unique tanginess that pairs beautifully with various toppings.
Try ranch dressing as your pizza sauce for a tangy and creamy option. The creaminess of the dressing adds a delicious twist to your pizza, and you can go easy on the cheese if you like.
Whether you opt for a classic cheddar-based sauce, experiment with gourmet variations, or try ranch dressing, these sauce alternatives impress your taste buds and take your homemade pizza to the next level.
17. Creme Fraiche
A delightful alternative to traditional pizza sauces is creme fraiche, a staple in French cuisine. Its creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor add a unique twist to your pies.
Creme fraiche pairs excellently with toppings like caramelized onions, goat cheese, or smoked salmon.
Spreading a thin layer of creme fraiche on your pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings can take your pizza night to the next level.
Experiment with this luxurious base sauce to enjoy a rich and indulgent pizza experience. Enjoy the velvety, smooth texture it brings to your creations.
18. Sweet chili sauce
Sweet chili sauce is versatile for adding a tangy kick to your pizza. Its blend of sweetness and heat offers a unique twist to traditional flavors.
Drizzle this sauce over your pizza dough and top it with fresh ingredients like shrimp, pineapple, or bell peppers for an exotic taste experience.
The slightly thick consistency of sweet chili sauce ensures a flavorful base that complements various toppings, making it a delightful addition to your homemade pizza night.
Experiment with this sauce to create a memorable flavor fusion, and don’t forget to top it with chopped green onions and cucumber for added freshness.
19. Baba ganoush
Baba ganoush, a flavorful Mediterranean dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings, can be a unique twist as a pizza sauce alternative.
Its creamy texture and smoky taste add depth to your pizza creations. Spread a thin layer on your pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings for a delicious fusion of flavors.
Baba ganoush brings a Middle Eastern flair to your pizza night, providing a refreshing departure from traditional pizza sauces. Try it with ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or fresh basil for a delightful culinary experience.
20. Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise can surprise as a pizza sauce alternative, offering a creamy tang that complements toppings. Its rich texture and subtle flavor add a unique twist to traditional pies.
Spread a thin layer on the pizza dough before layering on your favorite toppings for a delightful taste experience.
The smooth texture of mayonnaise blends well with fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and garlic aioli. Elevating your pizza game to new heights. Try it for a tasty spin on your next homemade pizza night.
FAQs
Can you use regular sauce as pizza sauce?
You can use regular pasta sauce or tomato sauce as an alternative to pizza sauce. The flavors may differ slightly, but it can still work well as a base for your pizza. It’s a great option if you don’t have traditional pizza sauce.
What other sauces can you use on pizza?
Plenty of other sauces can be used on pizza, such as hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or salad dressings like ranch or Caesar. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect sauce.
Can ketchup be used as pizza sauce?
While ketchup can be used as a quick alternative to pizza sauce, it may not provide the same depth of flavor. Mix ketchup with tomato sauce or add a pinch of brown sugar to enhance the flavor if you’re in a pinch.
Does salsa work as pizza sauce?
Salsa can be a flavorful alternative to traditional pizza sauce, especially if you want to create a Mexican-inspired pizza. Combining tomatoes, onions, and spices in salsa can add a delicious twist to your pizza.
Conclusion
Are you tired of the same old pizza sauce? Elevate your pies with these 25 unique alternatives! From flavorful pesto to creamy cashew cream, there’s a sauce for every taste bud.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy buffalo sauce or prefer the freshness of vegetable purees, these options will take your pizza game to the next level.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new – who knows, you might discover your new favorite pizza topping!
So, ditch the traditional sauce and experiment with these delicious alternatives for a culinary adventure right in your kitchen. Enjoy pizza night like never before!
Ella Foster, co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a skilled writer whose love for cooking fuels her creative work. Her passion for experimenting in the kitchen brings authentic flavor and culinary inspiration to every piece she crafts for the platform.
