If you’ve ever wished for a rich, flavorful tomato sauce that fills your kitchen with the aroma of Italy, look no further than this Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe. It’s a vibrant blend of perfectly cooked tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and herbs that come together to create a sauce bursting with authentic taste and warmth. This sauce is not just a simple condiment but a versatile foundation that elevates everything from pasta to pizza, making every meal feel like a special occasion. The beauty of this Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe is in its balance of fresh ingredients and easy preparation, ensuring that you enjoy a deeply satisfying and wholesome tomato sauce any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe is all about simplicity and quality, using ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the sweetness of ripe tomatoes to the aromatic herbs and spices, every component works in harmony to build layers of flavor that make this sauce unforgettable.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth base and helps sauté the vegetables while adding healthy fats.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuse the sauce with a warm, slightly spicy aroma essential in Italian cooking.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Provide a hearty texture and vibrant tomato flavor that forms the sauce’s foundation.
- Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Add chunks of real tomato that give the sauce texture and freshness.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- Dried oregano: Offers an earthy, peppery note that’s classic in marinara sauce.
- Dried basil: Brings a sweet and aromatic hint that perfectly complements the tomatoes.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Provide a gentle kick for those who like a spicy edge.
- Sugar (optional): Balances acidity and rounds out the tomato’s natural tang.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant burst of green and flavor just before serving.
How to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. The moment the oil is shimmering, toss in your finely chopped onion. Sauté it gently for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds—just enough for it to become fragrant but not so long that it burns. This step lays the aromatic foundation that every great marinara sauce needs.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Stir everything gently to combine, allowing the thick tomato paste to dissolve and meld with the tomatoes. This combination creates a perfect balance of smoothness and texture, which gives your sauce a hearty, comforting feel that sticks to every strand of pasta or slice of pizza.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Simmer
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes. If the tomatoes feel too tangy, add a teaspoon of sugar to soften the acidity and bring harmony to the flavors. Once everything is stirred together, bring your sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors develop and the sauce thickens to that perfect consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
After your sauce has simmered and your kitchen smells incredible, taste it! Adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your palate. This is the moment to make the sauce truly your own. Once satisfied, remove from heat and if you want, stir in chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh herbal punch just before serving.
How to Serve Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top instantly brighten the dish and add a lovely pop of color. For a richer experience, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can bring a creamy contrast to the tangy tomato base.
Side Dishes
This Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe shines alongside classic pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne. It’s also fantastic as a dipping sauce for crusty garlic bread or crispy mozzarella sticks. And don’t forget, it pairs beautifully with meatballs, chicken parmesan, or even roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try spreading this sauce over homemade pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings. You can also use it as a base for baked ziti, lasagna layers, or even a hearty shakshuka-style dish. The possibilities are endless, and this sauce brings a homemade touch that’s deeply satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, your homemade marinara sauce keeps beautifully in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes for an easy addition to quick dinners all week long, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep the sauce longer, freezing is your best friend. Ladle the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen marinara sauce can last up to three months, ready to be thawed for your convenience whenever you’re craving that homemade taste.
Reheating
Reheat your sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency. Microwave reheating also works well—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used, especially when they’re in season and ripe. You’ll want to blanch, peel, and crush them first to mimic the canned texture. It might take a bit longer to cook down, but the fresh flavor is delightful.
Is this sauce vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for many dietary needs. Just double-check any additional toppings or ingredients you add to keep it that way.
Can I omit the sugar if I prefer?
Definitely! The sugar is optional and mainly helps balance acidity. If your tomatoes are sweet enough or you prefer a more tangy sauce, feel free to skip the sugar.
How long does the sauce take to simmer?
Simmering for 25 to 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken perfectly. You can go a bit longer if you want a richer, more concentrated depth, just watch it doesn’t stick to the pan.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with rosemary, thyme, or even a bay leaf while simmering. Just remember to remove whole herbs before serving if you add them. It’s all about making this sauce uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like the comforting satisfaction of making your own tomato sauce from scratch. This Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe is a fantastic kitchen staple that brings warmth, freshness, and that unmistakable Italian charm to your meals. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your cooking rotation. Trust me, once you taste this sauce, store-bought marinara will seem like a distant memory!
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Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce made from scratch using fresh ingredients and simple seasonings. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or as a versatile base for many dishes. The sauce simmers gently on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to develop into a rich and savory blend, enhanced by herbs like oregano and basil. It’s a vegan, gluten-free, and wholesome option for your kitchen staples.
Ingredients
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onion: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped small onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it releases its aroma but doesn’t brown, enhancing the sauce’s richness.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the tomato components evenly.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild heat. If desired, add 1 teaspoon sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasonings and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Before serving, garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- This marinara sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- It freezes well, lasting up to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container.
- Use it as a base for a variety of dishes including pasta, pizza, meatballs, or lasagna.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- The sugar is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a more natural tomato flavor.
