Buzz
Tomato sauce has long been a staple of pizza, but is it the tomato itself that makes it essential, or can any sauce truly complement the toppings? Pizza is more versatile than we often realize. Take Roman-style pizza, for example—it can be made without sauce, and it's not even round. I'm not suggesting we completely abandon traditional tomato sauce (well, maybe just a little), but it's time to explore some exciting alternatives.
Sweet chili sauce
For an adventurous taste, layer your pizza crust with sweet chili sauce. There are many types available, from those with a garlicky or ginger kick to others with more heat. The taste is generally sweet and smooth. Add cheese, then top your pizza with something tangy or savory—pineapple and SPAM are excellent choices.
BBQ sauce
Tomato sauce provides a mild balance, but BBQ sauce makes a bold impact. Trader Joe’s offers a delicious frozen barbecue chicken pizza, but you can easily recreate it at home and achieve better results. Stretch out fresh pizza dough, cover it with your preferred barbecue sauce, then add cheese, cooked chicken, and red onions before baking.
Baba ganoush
Baba ganoush is more of a smoky, savory dip than a traditional sauce, but it pairs wonderfully with bread and cheese. You can find it pre-made in the refrigerated dip section of the store, or you can easily whip it up at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Jarred alfredo sauce
Traditional alfredo sauce is simple, typically made of just cream, butter, and parmesan. While these ingredients might not make the biggest impact on your pizza, jarred alfredo offers a thicker, creamier texture that works well to hold toppings in place. The flavor can vary slightly by brand, but it usually features mild garlic, onion, and cheese notes. It's versatile and pairs especially well with bitter green vegetables.
Mayonnaise
Mayo has earned its place as a versatile sauce, and if you haven’t embraced it yet, it’s time to try. It's already beloved as a dip for French fries, slathered on grilled corn, and a staple in grilled cheese sandwiches. So, why not on pizza? Spread a couple of tablespoons of regular mayo on your pizza, top it with chopped hot dogs, and create a pickle pizza. You could even simplify things and go straight for a layer of tartar sauce.
Coconut milk curry
A rich coconut milk curry sauce provides a perfect foundation to infuse your pizza with a deep array of aromatic flavors. You can use a jar of your favorite store-bought curry, prepare it from scratch, or opt for a concentrated paste that you combine with coconut milk. Choose a thicker sauce, as it clings better to the crust, but be sure to taste it first—some curries can be very spicy. If needed, tone it down by stirring in a couple of spoons of coconut milk.
Pesto
Pesto speaks for itself. This vibrant Italian sauce brings a burst of herbal flavor to your pizza and will leave you with the most delightful garlic breath. You can whip up your own batch (it’s a perfect way to use up fresh basil in the summer), or grab a jar from the store. My local Shoprite offers these handy six-ounce jars, ideal for those weeks when I can’t get enough pesto.
Cashew cream
If you're craving something creamy without dairy, cashew cream is the way to go. It’s easy to make at home and offers a versatile base for various flavors. Season it with spices or let its natural nuttiness take center stage. This plant-based sauce works beautifully as an alternative to alfredo, especially when paired with your favorite vegan cheese (or regular cheese—it's your pizza), and topped with bitter greens. Check out the cashew cheese sauce in this recipe.
Harissa
For all the spice lovers, I haven’t forgotten about you. If you want heat that makes your toes tingle, ditch the tomato sauce and replace it with a robust layer of harissa. This vibrant red sauce is made primarily from blended chili peppers, smoky spices, herbs, and a touch of oil to bring everything together. The spice level can vary significantly, so give it a taste before covering your whole pizza with it. If it’s too hot, balance it out by layering some tomato sauce over the pizza.
Olive tapenade
Olives are a fantastic topping, but sometimes that's just not enough. They deliver a salty, briny punch, and honestly, I’m tired of searching for those scarce olive rings on my pizza. I want that flavor in every bite. That’s where olive tapenade comes in. You may have seen it on charcuterie boards, but this spreadable paste of blended olives, oil, and brine makes a perfect addition to your pizza crust as well.
