Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for Homemade Marinara Sauce that is perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or dipping. This classic Italian red sauce is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar (if needed to balance acidity), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich in flavor.
- Stir in fresh parsley or basil just before serving if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
- This sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Blend with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
- Use it for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg