A burst of rich, savory flavor fills the kitchen as you simmer the sauce, instantly transporting you to an Italian trattoria. This Homemade Marinara sauce comes together in about 30 minutes and works perfectly for pasta, pizza, or a dipping sauce. Its simplicity is what makes it shine, allowing the fresh ingredients to take center stage.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves a homemade touch in their meals. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, and you can easily make it ahead of time to enhance the flavors. Store any leftovers in the fridge, and have them ready whenever you crave a quick and delicious sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh ingredients come together for a vibrant flavor.
- The method is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
- The sauce simmers to perfection with a deliciously balanced taste.
- It’s versatile and can be used in various Italian dishes.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your marinara masterpiece.
For the Sauce
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup diced yellow onion (about ½ medium onion)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (2–3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Pinch sugar
Substitutions available for most ingredients as needed.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Fresh tomatoes can replace canned for a fresher taste.
- Use any cooking oil instead of olive oil.
- Fresh basil works well if dried isn’t available.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to whip up your marinara sauce.
Heat
Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up to create a fragrant base for your sauce.
Sauté
Sauté the diced onions for 3–5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and dried basil. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. This step is key to developing the sauce’s flavor.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally while you make the meatballs. If the sauce begins to spurt, reduce the heat to low.
Season
Add salt and sugar and adjust seasonings if necessary. Taste and tweak to your preference for a finishing touch.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for convenience.
Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Always sauté the onion until it’s translucent for a deeper flavor.
- Use a wooden spoon to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan while simmering.
- Adjust the sugar according to the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Let the sauce sit for a few hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick dinner.
- Use as a base for homemade pizza.
- Pair with garlic bread as an appetizer.
