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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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Equipment

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

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

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the Aromatics:
  • Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Add the Tomato Paste:
  • Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
  • Combine Tomatoes and Spices:
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water or vegetable broth, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
  • Simmer the Sauce:
  • 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.
  • Add Fresh Basil:
  • During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • Blend for Smoothness (Optional):
  • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender.
  • Season and Serve:
  • 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.