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Marinara Sauce Recipe

This classic marinara sauce recipe is made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil for a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (or 6 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup water or vegetable broth
  • 2 –3 fresh basil leaves torn
  • Parmesan cheese optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional for smoother sauce)

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
  2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add the Tomato Paste:
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
  5. Combine Tomatoes and Spices:
  6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water or vegetable broth, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
  7. Simmer the Sauce:
  8. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken.
  9. Add Fresh Basil:
  10. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor.
  11. Blend for Smoothness (Optional):
  12. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender.
  13. Season and Serve:
  14. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot over pasta, use as a pizza base, or enjoy as a dipping sauce.