Homemade Marinara Sauce

Learn how to make the best Homemade Marinara Sauce with simple pantry staple ingredients – tomatoes, onions, garlic, oregano, and basil. This sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping. Its fresh flavors elevate any dish, making it a must-have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be stored for later use!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This homemade marinara sauce takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs enhances the flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Versatile Uses: Ideal for pasta dishes, pizza toppings, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste by adding more herbs or spices.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Homemade Marinara Sauce, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: The perfect size for simmering sauces without splatter.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Chopping board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.

Ingredients

Learn how to make the best Homemade Marinara Sauce with simple pantry staple ingredients – tomatoes, onions, garlic, oregano, and basil. You can use homemade marinara sauce in any recipe that calls for Marinara. It also keeps well if you want to save leftovers or make a bigger batch.*

For the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion (1/2 cup chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 Tbsp fresh basil (or parsley, finely minced, plus more to garnish)

How to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by placing a medium saucepan over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp of olive oil.
– Once the oil is hot, add 1/2 cup chopped onion.
– Stir often until soft and golden (about 5 minutes).
– Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute or until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, stir in 28 oz of crushed tomatoes along with 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
– Bring the mixture to a light boil.
– Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Finally, stir in 1 Tbsp of chopped fresh basil then turn off the heat.
– Allow it to cool slightly before serving or storing.

This delicious Homemade Marinara Sauce yields approximately 3 cups and is perfect for various Italian dishes!

How to Serve Homemade Marinara Sauce

Homemade Marinara Sauce is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve your sauce, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Pasta

• Pair with your favorite pasta for a classic Italian dish. Toss the sauce with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a comforting meal.

Pizza

• Use as a base sauce for homemade pizza. Spread it on dough before adding toppings for a rich flavor.

Meatballs

• Serve alongside meatballs for an authentic taste. The sauce complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Dipping Sauce

• Use as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks. Its robust flavor adds a delicious twist to appetizers.

Shakshuka

• Incorporate into shakshuka by poaching eggs in the sauce. This creates a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Sandwiches

• Spread on sandwiches, especially with grilled vegetables or chicken parmesan. It enhances the overall taste and moisture.

How to Perfect Homemade Marinara Sauce

Making the perfect Homemade Marinara Sauce requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce shines.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Don’t rush cooking: Allowing the onions and garlic to soften properly brings out their sweetness.
• Balance acidity: If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavors.
• Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container or freeze them in portions for later use.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Marinara Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Marinara Sauce can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this classic side is perfect for dipping into marinara.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement marinara beautifully.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice, cheese, and herbs, then bake topped with marinara sauce.
4. Zucchini Noodles: A healthy alternative to pasta; toss zucchini noodles in marinara for a light dish.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized pair well with marinara’s rich flavors.
6. Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with marinara makes for a comforting side dish that’s perfect in colder months.
7. Meatball Sub: A hearty sandwich filled with meatballs and marinara sauce offers a satisfying meal option.
8. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto topped with marinara adds richness and depth to the dish, making it a great pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Marinara Sauce can be a joy, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping fresh ingredients: Using canned garlic or dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish the flavor. Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs when possible.
• Boldly ignoring the simmering time: Rushing the cooking process can lead to a bland sauce. Make sure to simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to develop rich flavors.
• Boldly over-salting: Too much salt can overpower your marinara. Start with a small amount and adjust after tasting.
• Boldly neglecting texture: Not blending or crushing tomatoes properly can leave chunks in your sauce. Ensure your tomatoes are well-pureed or crushed for a smoother texture.
• Boldly forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or parsley as a garnish can make your dish less appealing. Always add some fresh herbs before serving for extra flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the marinara sauce to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Homemade Marinara Sauce

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Homemade Marinara Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place sauce in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Homemade Marinara Sauce?

Homemade Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce made from simple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. It’s perfect for pasta dishes, pizza, and more.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes; just peel and chop them before cooking. Keep in mind that this may change the cooking time slightly.

How do I customize my Homemade Marinara Sauce?

You can customize your sauce by adding red pepper flakes for heat, or even vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture.

How long does homemade marinara sauce last?

Homemade marinara sauce lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored properly.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Homemade Marinara Sauce is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Marinara Sauce is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can use it in various dishes from pasta to pizza. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors!