Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce
This simple yet rich marinara sauce is a staple in Italian kitchens. Bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
🍴 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🔥 Instructions
Sauté the Garlic:
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add onion, garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to brown the garlic.
Add Tomatoes:
Crush the tomatoes by hand or use a potato masher. Add them to the pan along with their juices. Stir in salt, sugar (if using), and oregano.
Simmer and Stir:
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Add Basil and Finish:
Stir in fresh basil and season with black pepper. Adjust salt to taste and blend with an immersion blender if you prefer a smoother texture.
📦 Amazon Must-Haves to help you create the best Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce
- 🍅 San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes – The gold standard for authentic Italian flavor.
- 🧄 Fresh Garlic Bulbs, Organic – Essential for that aromatic kick in every bite.
- 🍶 Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Rich and smooth, perfect for sautéing and drizzling.
- 🥄 Wooden Spoon Set – Gentle on your pots and great for stirring simmering sauces.
- 🍃 Dried Oregano & Basil Herb Set – Classic Italian herbs for depth of flavor.
- 🍲 Saucepan with Lid – Ideal size and shape for simmering sauces evenly.
💡 Helpful Tip: For a richer marinara, add a splash of red wine during the simmering stage or toss in a parmesan rind for added umami.