There’s nothing quite like the aroma of simmering marinara sauce filling your kitchen, evoking memories of family dinners and warm gatherings. This marinara sauce takes just 30 minutes to prepare, bringing together simple ingredients to create a robust, flavorful sauce that shines in any Italian dish. The combination of fresh basil and aromatic garlic gives it a bright flavor that elevates any meal.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting dish. You can whip it up in no time or make it in advance and store it for later. Whether it’s for a classic spaghetti dinner or as a base for your favorite pizza, this marinara sauce promises to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It requires only a few common pantry ingredients.
- The fresh basil adds vibrancy and freshness to the sauce.
- You’ll achieve a rich, homemade flavor in just 30 minutes.
- The sauce can be used in various dishes beyond pasta.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your marinara sauce.
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt, or more to taste
- 2 twists black pepper
- 10 leaves fresh basil, chopped
Note: Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil if needed.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Olive oil: Can use vegetable oil.
- Whole peeled tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes work as well.
- Fresh basil: Use 1 tsp dried basil instead.
- Red pepper flakes: Omit for a milder sauce.
How to Make It
Prepare flavorful marinara sauce in just a few steps.
Chop onion and garlic
Finely chop 1 onion and mince 3 cloves garlic.
Prepare tomatoes
Add 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes to a mixing bowl. Rinse the cans with 1 cup water and add that, too. Chop the tomatoes with scissors, crush them with your hands, or blend them with an immersion blender.
Sauté onion
Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté on medium heat for 4 minutes, stirring often.
Add garlic and spices
Add minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for one more minute.
Combine tomatoes
Add the prepared tomatoes and season with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 twists of black pepper. Simmer on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until you reach your desired consistency. Tip: During this time, you can cook 12 ounces/340 grams of spaghetti in salted boiling water.
Stir in basil
A minute before turning the heat off, stir in 10 leaves of fresh basil, chopped. Taste and adjust for salt, and your marinara sauce is ready.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months without loss of flavor.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Let the sauce simmer longer for deeper flavors if you have time.
- Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a burst of aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss with spaghetti for a classic Italian dish.
- Use it as a base for homemade pizza.
- Serve alongside meatballs for a hearty meal.
