This Classic Marinara Sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. With fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it’s a delicious and versatile sauce to have on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook Onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes
- Prepare Tomatoes: Crush the whole peeled tomatoes with your hands or a potato masher and add them to the saucepan with their juices.
- Season: Stir in the sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer
- Cook Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Blend (Optional)
- Blend Sauce: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a blender and blend in batches.
Finish with Fresh Herbs
- Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or enjoy it as a dipping sauce with breadsticks.
Notes
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and add a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar if you like a richer flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
10 FAQs
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just peel, chop, and cook them down to get the same consistency. - Can I use this sauce for pizza?
Absolutely! This marinara sauce is perfect as a pizza sauce. - How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat. - Can I freeze marinara sauce?
Yes, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. - How can I make this sauce smoother?
Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the sauce until smooth. - Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for extra flavor. - What type of tomatoes are best for marinara sauce?
Whole peeled tomatoes are best, but crushed tomatoes or tomato puree can also be used. - How long can I store marinara sauce in the refrigerator?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. - Can I use this sauce for a meat sauce?
Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or meatballs to the marinara for a hearty meat sauce. - Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a great make-ahead option. Just reheat it before serving.
Conclusion
This Classic Marinara Sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re topping a plate of pasta, spreading it on a pizza, or dipping breadsticks, this sauce will enhance your meals with its rich and savory taste. Enjoy making and sharing this homemade sauce with family and friends!