Italian food lovers understand that a good dish is often determined by the sauce. Whether you’re making a pasta dish or a baked plate, sauces provide the marriage of flavors associated with the robust and complex flavors of Italian cuisine. While every Italian sauce is different, with key indicators for quality, many Italian lovers get marinara and pizza sauce confused for each other. But what is the difference between marinara and pizza sauce? Some might use these two sauces interchangeably, but both sauces have unique tastes and designated uses to be aware of before diving into any recipe.
If you’ve found yourself confused about the difference between these two Italian kitchen staples, have no fear: Pirro’s is here to provide some helpful guidance. In this article, Pirro’s will explore the differences between marinara and pizza sauce, the debate between using pizza sauce vs. marinara, and how you can find delicious pasta and pizza sauces at Pirro’s Sauce!
What is Pizza Sauce?
Pizza sauce is typically made with pureed tomatoes and tomato pastes, minimal herbs, and water, to create a thicker sauce than most Italian sauces. You want to choose a thicker pizza sauce to prevent the crust from getting soggy during the baking process. While many pizzas tend to have thicker sauces, pizza sauce is more determined by what type of pizza you’re looking to cook.
What is Marinara?
Marinara sauce is another tomato-based sauce typically made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, oil, and Italian herbs. Marinara recipes will often vary based on preferences, with capers, olives, and wine being common variations on the classic sauce.
What Are The Biggest Differences Between Pizza Sauce and Marinara?
Marinara sauce is a pantry staple used in dozens of recipes, in and outside the scope of Italian cuisine. Any college freshman can agree that the versatility of marinara caters well to those who prefer a quick and simple meal. A common mistake is thinking that marinara sauce and pizza sauce, both quite similar in look and taste, can be swapped out for one another in many dishes. However, there are many differences between pizza sauce vs. marinara, the most substantial distinctions being:
- Marinara is typically slow-simmered
- Pizza sauces can be prepared fairly quickly
- Marinara features a deeper and richer flavor profile
- Pizza sauce utilizes fewer spices and herbs
- Marinara is thinner than pizza sauce
Pizza sauce is usually non-cooked pureed tomatoes with minor herbs and spices added. Pizza sauce usually tastes better when cooked on the spot to capture the rich tomato flavors. While pizza sauces are great for creating a pie you can be proud of, it is also a great dipping sauce for many appetizers and small plates. Some suggested uses for pizza sauce include:
- Pizza
- Calzones
- Mozzarella Sticks
- Toasted Ravioli
Marinara sauces are usually chunkier sauces that flaunt more complex flavors than pizza sauce. The recipe options for marinara are endless, even venturing outside the realm of its Italian origins. Some suggested uses for marinara sauce include:
- Spaghetti Dishes
- Chicken Parmesan
- Meatball Sauce
- Ratatouille
Can You Use Marinara Sauce for Pizza?
Marinara often comes in pre-cooked and jarred batches. Pizza sauces are uncooked and less seasoned, usually prepared to be baked later within a dish. While you technically can use pizza sauce while making pasta, the essential concern is if you should. There are definitely better sauce recipes out there equipped for the task. That said, using marinara sauces for pizza is a great choice. Those that wish to capture an especially flavorful pizza bursting with Italian herbs should consider using a marinara sauce to create a delicious pizza pie.
Get Your Pizza and Marinara Fix at Pirro’s Sauce!
When deciding whether to use pizza sauce or marinara sauce, understanding their differences is the key to success. Pirro’s Sauce seeks to make family dinners exciting with delicious sauces packed with flavor. Whether looking for a flavorful pizza sauce for pizza night or a robust marinara sauce for a quick-and-easy dinner, Pirro’s Sauce is here to help. Originating in our family restaurant and later expanding due to widespread popularity, Pirro’s family-owned sauces seek to encourage community in the kitchen with mouthwatering tastes.
Boasting six unique family-crafted recipes, all Pirro’s sauces are cooked with all-natural ingredients to ensure a quality experience. Make your mealtime memories even richer by exploring Pirro’s Marinara and Pizza sauces today!
