Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce Recipe: Make Your Favorite Takeout Pizza Sauce At Home
If you love that rich, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced tomato sauce from Pizza Hut, you’re not alone! While I’ve made homemade pizza sauce plenty of times, I never quite nailed that signature flavor—until now. This copycat Pizza Hut sauce is packed with the perfect balance of tomatoes, herbs, and just a touch of sweetness to give it that familiar, crave-worthy taste.
When I first started making pizza sauce at home, I always stuck to a basic blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. But after some experimenting (and a few takeout comparisons), I found that a little sugar, onion powder, and a secret touch of paprika make all the difference in recreating that classic Pizza Hut taste. If you want a sauce that’s thick, flavorful, and better than store-bought, this is the one!

Your Grocery List
- Canned tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- Canned tomato paste (6 ounces)
- Water (1/2 cup)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
- Dried marjoram (1/2 teaspoon)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional for heat)
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon, for subtle smokiness)
What Makes Pizza Hut Sauce Different?
Unlike traditional homemade pizza sauces, Pizza Hut’s sauce is slightly thicker and has a balanced sweetness that enhances the flavors of the toppings. It also leans on dried herbs rather than fresh, which gives it a bolder, more concentrated flavor. A touch of paprika adds a subtle smokiness that makes all the difference.
Simmering for Maximum Flavor
One of the best tricks I’ve learned for achieving that restaurant-quality sauce is letting it simmer. Once all the ingredients are combined, simmering for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors deepen and blend beautifully. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes—so if you have time, let it go for an hour for an even richer taste.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Pizza Hut’s sauce isn’t too chunky, but it’s also not completely smooth. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender after simmering. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or a bit more olive oil to loosen it up.
Make It Even Better
Want to take this sauce to the next level? Try adding a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese while it simmers for an umami boost. If you like a little extra tang, a teaspoon of red wine vinegar can enhance the flavors even more. And for a spicy kick, don’t skip the crushed red pepper flakes!
Pairing Ideas
What Kind of Pizza Goes Best with This Sauce?
This sauce works with any pizza, but it’s especially good on classic pepperoni, supreme, or even a meat lover’s pizza for that authentic Pizza Hut experience.
Drink Pairings
A cold cola or a crisp lager beer pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of this sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, a homemade Italian soda is a fun twist!
Dessert Pairings
Follow up your pizza night with a batch of warm cinnamon breadsticks or a slice of tiramisu for a delicious finish.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Fun Facts
Did you know Pizza Hut started in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas? Their signature sauce has barely changed over the years, making it one of the most recognizable flavors in fast food pizza!
Allergen Warnings
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. If you have dietary restrictions, check your canned tomato products to ensure they contain no additives that could cause issues.
Vegetarian or Vegan Substitutes
Great news! This sauce is already vegetarian and vegan-friendly as written. Just be sure to use a vegan-friendly sugar if that’s a concern.
Copycat Pizza Hut Sauce
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir until smooth.
- 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.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The flavors will deepen as it simmers.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach desired consistency. For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
- Use immediately on pizza or let cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.