Name: Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 medium yellow onion (1/2 cup chopped); 3 garlic cloves (finely minced); 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 Tbsp fresh basil (or parsley, finely minced, plus more to garnish)

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Introduction

This homemade marinara sauce is a classic and versatile tomato sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it enhances any dish with fresh, rich flavor.

A deep white pot filled with thick red tomato sauce that has a slightly chunky texture. Bright green basil strips are spread on top, adding a fresh contrast. A wooden spoon is partially dipped into the sauce, showing some sauce dripping off its smooth surface. The background features a white marbled texture with hints of blue fabric in the corner and a small tomato and green basil leaves near the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 medium yellow onion (1/2 cup chopped)
3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
28 oz crushed tomatoes
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
1 Tbsp fresh basil (or parsley, finely minced, plus more to garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and stir frequently until it becomes soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat and simmer partially covered for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil. Garnish with additional herbs if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh tomatoes in season for a brighter flavor or add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic.
For a smoky twist, add a small amount of smoked paprika or substitute fresh basil with fresh parsley.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering.

Storage

Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a thick, bright red tomato sauce inside a white pot with a blue exterior. The sauce has a chunky texture and is topped with thinly sliced green basil leaves and a light sprinkle of black pepper. Next to the pot are two whole red tomatoes with green stems and a single garlic clove, all placed on a white marbled surface. The background is softly blurred to keep focus on the sauce and fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned whole tomatoes instead of crushed?

Yes. Just crush the whole tomatoes by hand or with a spoon before adding to the pan for a similar texture.

Is this sauce suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Marinara sauce freezes well and maintains its flavor. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags for convenience.