Homemade Marinara Sauce

Gabrielle Knopp

This homemade marinara sauce is rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to jarred sauce!

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  3. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.

  5. Add dried basil, oregano, and sugar. Stir to combine.

  6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.

  7. Let simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened.

  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  9. Serve over your favorite pasta and top with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • This sauce freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze half for later.
  • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend to your desired consistency.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Makes about 4 cups of sauce.