Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it uses basic pantry ingredients to create a versatile sauce that can be used in many ways. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, while the fresh herbs and garlic add depth and aroma. I also enjoy making a large batch because it stores well and makes future meals easier to prepare.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Directions
- I heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- I add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- I stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- I add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using.
- I stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- I reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- I stir in the fresh parsley or basil during the final few minutes of cooking.
- I taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- I serve immediately or allow the sauce to cool before storing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- I add red pepper flakes when I want a spicy marinara sauce.
- I include finely grated carrots for a naturally sweeter flavor.
- I stir in sautéed mushrooms for added texture and depth.
- I add a splash of red wine while simmering for a richer taste.
- I use fresh oregano and basil when they are available for a brighter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store Homemade Marinara Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I warm the sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. I can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through the heating time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, I can use fresh tomatoes. I typically peel and crush them before cooking, although canned tomatoes provide consistent flavor and convenience.
Why should I add sugar to marinara sauce?
I sometimes add a small amount of sugar to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, but it is completely optional.
Can I make marinara sauce ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare it a day or two in advance because the flavors continue to develop as the sauce rests.
Is marinara sauce the same as spaghetti sauce?
Not exactly. Marinara is usually a simple tomato-based sauce, while spaghetti sauce often contains additional ingredients such as meat and extra vegetables.
What can I serve with Homemade Marinara Sauce?
I enjoy serving it with pasta, pizza, meatballs, breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, baked dishes, and roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
I love making Homemade Marinara Sauce because it is simple, versatile, and packed with fresh tomato flavor. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs creates a classic sauce that enhances countless meals. Whether I use it for pasta night, homemade pizza, or meal prep, it always delivers comforting homemade goodness.
PrintHomemade Marinara Sauce
Homemade Marinara Sauce is a rich and flavorful tomato sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and herbs. This classic Italian-inspired sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, and a variety of comforting meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using.
- Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the fresh parsley or basil during the final few minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve immediately or allow the sauce to cool before storing.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy marinara variation.
- Include finely grated carrots for natural sweetness.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- Add a splash of red wine while simmering for deeper flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
