Marinara Sauce Recipe – Easy Homemade Classic
Introduction
Marinara sauce recipe is a timeless Italian classic that brings rich, fresh flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort. This homemade marinara is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce, and it’s far superior to anything from a jar. With just a handful of simple ingredients and about 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant, aromatic easy pasta sauce that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this classic tomato sauce is foolproof and endlessly versatile.
Ingredients List
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. If using fresh tomatoes, core and chop them; if using canned, have them ready to pour.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes or fresh chopped tomatoes. Stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Season the sauce: Add the dried oregano, fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
- Serve or store: Remove from heat and use immediately, or let cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freezing for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips & Variations
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce after simmering. If you prefer a chunkier Italian sauce recipe, simply mash the tomatoes with a potato masher instead. To deepen the flavor, add a splash of red wine during the simmering stage. For a vegan version, ensure your olive oil is pure and avoid adding any cheese. You can also experiment by adding finely chopped carrots or celery for extra sweetness and depth.
Serving Suggestions
This marinara sauce recipe is incredibly versatile. Toss it with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal. Use it as a base for homemade pizza, or serve it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, or fried calamari. It also works beautifully in lasagna, baked ziti, or as a braising liquid for meatballs. For a light meal, spoon it over grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, fresh Roma or San Marzano tomatoes work wonderfully. Just core, chop, and cook a bit longer to break them down.
- How long does homemade marinara last in the fridge? Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze this sauce? Absolutely. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Is this sauce spicy? It’s mildly spiced with red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a milder version.
Conclusion
This marinara sauce recipe proves that homemade is always better. With its bright, fresh flavors and simple preparation, it’s a staple every home cook should master. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight pasta or preparing a feast, this homemade marinara delivers authentic Italian taste with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought. Enjoy the rich, comforting aroma and the satisfaction of creating something truly delicious from scratch.
