Marinara Sauce

A rich and savory homemade marinara sauce that serves as the perfect foundation for pasta dishes, pizza, and more.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Condiment, Sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Base ingredients

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness; substitute with any neutral oil.
1 Onion Provides depth of flavor; yellow or sweet onions are best.
3 cloves Garlic Infuses with aroma and taste; minced, or roasted for sweetness.
28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes The base of your sauce; use whole tomatoes crushed by hand for a chunkier texture.
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Delivers classic Italian flavor; fresh oregano can substitute but use more sparingly.
1/2 cup Fresh Basil Adds freshness and aroma; can use dried basil in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
to taste Pepper Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
1 teaspoon Sugar Optional, adds sweetness if desired.

Method

Cooking

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if desired.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce heat to low.
Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot with pasta or as desired.

Notes

Marinara sauce is incredibly versatile. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting meal, use it as a base for pizza, or even serve it alongside homemade garlic bread for dipping. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.