Description
This classic homemade marinara sauce is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make using simple ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping, this sauce offers an authentic Italian taste with a smooth or chunky texture depending on your preference.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil and Cook Onions: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor and develop richness in the sauce.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes with their juices, and break them up using a wooden spoon or potato masher. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and if it is too acidic, add the optional sugar to balance the flavors. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional): If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the saucepan or transfer the sauce in batches to a regular blender. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the sauce hot with your favorite pasta, pizza, or as a dip. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for added freshness and aroma.
Notes
- This marinara sauce works perfectly for pasta dishes, pizza bases, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
- It keeps well stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months without loss of flavor.
- For the best flavor, always use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweet and balanced taste.
