Go Back

Homemade Marinara Sauce

A simple and comforting marinara sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, and San Marzano tomatoes, perfect for pasta or pizza.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use extra virgin for a fuller flavor.
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped Can swap for white onion or shallots.
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced or pressed Avoid browning the garlic.
  • 3 tablespoons fresh oregano Or use 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Add more for extra heat.
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 28 oz canned whole San Marzano tomatoes, with their juices Choose good-quality canned tomatoes.
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped Add near the end to preserve flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Can replace with honey for a natural sweet finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set a pot or saucepan over medium heat, then add the olive oil. Once it warms, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until they soften and smell sweet.
  2. Next, stir in the oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to awaken the flavors.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the canned San Marzano tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring now and then until the sauce thickens.
  2. Stir in the fresh basil and sugar. Cook for about 1 more minute, then turn off the heat.
Serving
  1. Serve the marinara sauce right away or allow to cool for storage.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; freeze for up to 4 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.