There’s something magical about a homemade marinara sauce that’s rich, velvety, and bursting with fresh flavors. This recipe combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs into a luscious sauce that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a touch of spice, it’s a versatile staple for pasta, pizza, or dipping. The texture is smooth yet hearty, clinging to every bite with a comforting warmth that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
What makes this sauce truly special is its simplicity and depth of flavor. Fresh basil and oregano infuse every spoonful with a vibrant, herbaceous aroma, while a drizzle of olive oil adds a silky richness. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, this marinara is a crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, homemade meal. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to jarred sauce again!
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup (145 g) Finely chopped yellow onion (use sweet onions for a milder flavor)
- 2 Tablespoons Minced garlic (about 5 large cloves)
- 28 oz (680 g) Crushed tomatoes (no spices or salt added; San Marzano tomatoes recommended for best flavor)
- 2 Tablespoons Finely shredded fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil if fresh is unavailable)
- 2 teaspoons Sugar (to balance acidity; adjust to taste)
- ¾ teaspoons Dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoons Finely ground sea salt (or kosher salt)
- ½ teaspoon Finely cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large saucepan, heat 2 Tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium/high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the onion: Add 1 cup (145 g) of finely chopped yellow onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add the garlic: Stir in 2 Tablespoons of minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Combine ingredients: Add 28 oz (680 g) of crushed tomatoes, 2 Tablespoons of fresh basil, 2 teaspoons of sugar, ¾ teaspoons of dried oregano, ¾ teaspoons of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium/low and let the marinara sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich aroma.
- Serve or store: Use immediately over pasta, pizza, or your favorite dish, or store in an airtight container for later use.
Serving Suggestions for Your Marinara Masterpiece
This versatile marinara sauce is perfect for classic spaghetti, but don’t stop there! Try it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread, a base for homemade pizza, or a flavorful topping for meatballs. For a heartier meal, layer it in lasagna or mix it into baked ziti. Pro tip: Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your marinara sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations to Spice Things Up
Customize your marinara sauce to suit your taste! Add a splash of red wine for depth, or toss in a handful of chopped olives for a briny twist. For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of ricotta or heavy cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a unique flavor boost.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-chopped onions and jarred minced garlic to cut down on prep. You can also double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later. Bonus tip: Simmer the sauce while you cook your pasta or prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency.
Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion (145 g)
- 2 Tablespoons minced garlic this was about 5 large cloves for me
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (680 g) no spices or salt added
- 2 Tablespoons finely shredded fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- ¾ teaspoons dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoons finely ground sea salt
- ½ teaspoon finely cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium/high heat until shimmering.
- Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add garlic, cook (stirring frequently) until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add crushed tomatoes, basil, sugar, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and reduce heat to medium low.
- Simmer marinara sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use as desired.