If you have ever wondered how to capture the heart of Italian cooking in one simple jar, look no further than The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe. This vibrant, rich sauce bursts with fresh tomato flavor, perfectly balanced herbs, and just the right hint of spice. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms any dish—whether tossed with pasta, spread over pizza, or offered as a hearty dip—into something truly memorable. The lovely blend of olive oil, garlic, and aromatic seasonings makes this homemade marinara a staple you’ll want to keep close at hand in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Baking magic with marinara starts with a handful of ingredients that are straightforward but each plays a crucial role. The beauty of this sauce comes from the fresh and pantry staples working together to build depth, texture, and a beautiful, balanced flavor.
- Olive oil: Provides a silky base and infuses subtle richness.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that’s unmistakably Italian.
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, offering fresh tomato flavor and texture.
- 15 oz can tomato sauce: Enhances smoothness and color intensity.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Salt: Elevates all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance sweetness.
- Sugar: Cuts acidity and rounds out the natural tomato tang.
- Dried oregano: Introduces herbal earthiness.
- Dried basil: Offers a sweet, peppery aroma, classic to marinara.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a mild, inviting kick if you like spice.
- Bay leaf: Infuses a subtle depth during simmering.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: Adds fresh color and brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Warm olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and gently cook the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. This base is crucial for that mellow sweetness that lays the foundation for the sauce. Then, toss in the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds—enough time for its fragrance to bloom without turning bitter.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring everything together until beautifully combined. This trio creates the perfect blend of chunky texture and smooth consistency, delivering a luscious body that clings beautifully to any pasta or bread.
Step 3: Season Perfectly
Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Each of these seasonings is thoughtfully added to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes and weave that signature Italian herb flavor into every bite.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Add the bay leaf, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then turn the heat down to low and let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer thickens the sauce, melding all those flavors into one harmonious blend. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf and taste the sauce, adjusting the seasoning if needed to hit your favorite flavor notes. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil for that fresh, vibrant pop that makes this truly The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the sauce at the table. For a little indulgence, you can even finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or some finely grated Parmesan cheese if you enjoy dairy.
Side Dishes
This marinara is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside crusty garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or even roasted polenta slices. It’s also fantastic as a flavorful partner to grilled or sautéed meats and veggies for a simple but satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swirling this sauce through creamy risotto or dolloping it over baked eggplant parmesan. It’s a star component in homemade pizza, paired with fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. For dipping, warm it up and serve with crispy fried mozzarella sticks or homemade breadsticks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your freshly made marinara cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Freezing
This sauce freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a wonderful way to have homemade goodness on hand anytime you crave The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe without the fuss of cooking from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it loosely to avoid splatter and stir partway through heating. Its flavor will shine as brightly as the day it was made.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used if they’re ripe and juicy, but you’ll want to peel and crush them first. Keep in mind that canned San Marzano tomatoes are often preferred for their consistent flavor and texture, which is why they’re featured in The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe.
How can I make the sauce smoother?
If you prefer a velvety smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce once it’s finished cooking. This step is optional but can give your marinara that restaurant-quality finish.
Is this sauce suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based and gluten-free, making it suitable for both vegan and gluten-intolerant diners alike.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of red wine to add more complexity, but the classic blend of oregano and basil in this recipe keeps the focus on The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe’s traditional flavor.
What dishes pair best with this marinara?
It’s incredibly versatile—perfect on pasta, pizza, baked dishes like lasagna, dipping crispy appetizers, or even spooned over grilled vegetables. This sauce breathes life into so many recipes.
Final Thoughts
Once you make The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought jars. This sauce brings heartfelt comfort and authentic Italian spirit to your table with every spoonful. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with cooking all over again!
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The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Best Homemade Marinara Sauce recipe delivers a rich, flavorful Italian classic perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping. Made from simple pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with a hint of red pepper flakes for heat. Vegan, gluten-free, and packed with vibrant tomato flavor, this sauce simmers to a perfect balance of tangy and savory goodness.
Ingredients
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Onions: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic as it will impart a robust aroma to the sauce.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring thoroughly to combine all the tomato elements into a rich, unified mixture.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir well to evenly distribute the herbs and spices, deepening the flavor profile.
- Add Bay Leaf and Simmer: Drop in the bay leaf and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and build a thick, balanced sauce.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the bay leaf and taste the sauce, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving to add brightness and a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender before serving.
- This marinara freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic and rich tomato flavor.
- Versatile sauce ideal for pasta dishes, pizza bases, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
