Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce, this homemade version uses just a few basic ingredients to create a rich and comforting dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Step 3: Season the sauce with salt and stir in the chopped basil. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother sauce, blend the cooked marinara with an immersion blender before adding the basil.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking for a spicy kick.
• Use canned whole tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not in season; just crush them before adding.

Storage

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

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, canned whole or crushed tomatoes work well and can be substituted in the same quantity if fresh tomatoes are not available or out of season.

How do I prevent garlic from burning when sautéing?

Keep the heat at medium or medium-low and stir frequently. Remove the pan from heat briefly if the garlic starts browning too quickly to avoid bitterness.

Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 54 reviews

This classic Marinara Sauce recipe is a simple and flavorful tomato-based sauce made by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then simmering fresh tomatoes with basil and salt. Perfect for pasta dishes, pizza, or as a base for other Italian recipes.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 3 cups of marinara sauce 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Marinara Sauce Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, approx. 28 oz each)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
2. Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer and Season: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. Add salt and chopped basil during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

• Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor; canned tomatoes work well as a convenient substitute.
• You can add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
• For a smoother sauce, blend after cooking or strain before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keywords: marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian sauce, garlic tomato sauce, homemade marinara