Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Prepare a delicious sauce in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- No Added Sugar: Enjoy a healthier option without the unnecessary sugars found in store-bought versions.
- Authentic Flavor: Experience the traditional taste of Italian marinara made from scratch.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for pasta, pizza, lasagna, and more.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup regular olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and left whole
- 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano variety)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add whole garlic cloves and chopped onions (if using). Sauté until the garlic is golden brown and the onions are translucent.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add salt, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and fresh basil. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Final Touches: After simmering, remove the bay leaf and whole garlic cloves. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups of marinara sauce, sufficient to coat 1 pound of pasta.
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Herb Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for additional flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Sauté finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery with the onions and garlic to add depth and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
- Meaty Marinara: Brown ground beef, sausage, or turkey before adding the tomatoes to create a hearty meat sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled sauce in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
FAQs
How can I reduce the acidity in my marinara sauce?
To balance the acidity, consider adding a small amount of sugar or a grated carrot during cooking. The natural sweetness will help neutralize the acidic taste.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Blanch, peel, and crush them before adding to the saucepan. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to achieve the desired consistency.
Is it necessary to remove the garlic cloves after cooking?
Removing the whole garlic cloves results in a smoother sauce with a subtle garlic flavor. If you prefer a stronger garlic taste, mince the garlic and leave it in the sauce.
Can I make this sauce oil-free?
While olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics, you can omit it for an oil-free version. Instead, sauté the garlic and onions in a small amount of vegetable broth or water.
What type of pasta pairs best with marinara sauce?
Marinara sauce is versatile and complements various pasta shapes, including spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, and fusilli. Choose your favorite pasta or what’s available.
How can I thicken my marinara sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, add a small amount of tomato paste to achieve the desired thickness.
Can I add wine to this sauce?
Yes, adding a splash of red or white wine can enhance the sauce’s depth of flavor. Add the wine after sautéing the garlic and onions, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes.
Is this marinara sauce suitable for canning?
This recipe is suitable for immediate consumption or short-term storage. If you wish to can the sauce for long-term preservation, ensure you follow proper canning procedures and guidelines to prevent spoilage.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use one-third the amount of fresh herbs called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too salty?
Start with a modest amount of salt and adjust gradually. Remember that the sauce’s flavors will concentrate as it simmers, potentially increasing the saltiness. Taste before adding more salt.
Print
Easy Pasta Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: ~4 cups (enough for 1 pound of pasta)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Marinara Sauce is a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make staple in Italian cuisine. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, lasagna, and more. No added sugar, just pure, delicious tomato goodness!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup regular olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole
- ¼ cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh basil
Notes
✅ Herb Enhancements – Add oregano or parsley for extra flavor.
✅ Vegetable Boost – Sauté bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added depth.
✅ Spicy Version – Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
✅ Meaty Marinara – Brown ground beef, sausage, or turkey before adding tomatoes.
✅ Thicker Sauce – Let it simmer uncovered or add tomato paste.
✅ Wine Addition – Deglaze with a splash of red or white wine after sautéing garlic and onions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
