Easy Marinara Sauce Recipe
This Easy Marinara Sauce is the perfect addition to your pasta dishes, lasagnas, and so much more. Made with simple ingredients that deliver rich, flavorful results, it’s a must-try for beginner cooks. The sauce can be prepared in under 1.5 hours and will yield approximately 2 liters of delicious marinara. Whether you are using it as a base for pizza, dipping sauce, or as an accompaniment to your favorite pasta, it’s a versatile, homemade sauce that guarantees satisfaction.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 liters
- Category: European
- Keywords: Vegan, Free Of…, Beginner Cook, Easy, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 399.2 kcal |
| Fat Content | 15.2 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 2.2 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 2041.9 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 65.7 g |
| Fiber Content | 14 g |
| Sugar Content | 34.6 g |
| Protein Content | 9.2 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onions | 4 |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Plum Tomatoes | 1 can (400g) |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 1 can (400g) |
| Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Basil | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by dicing the onions finely and crushing the garlic cloves. This will ensure they blend seamlessly into the sauce for a smooth texture. -
Sauté the Garlic and Onions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. This will bring out its natural oils and create a savory base for your sauce. -
Cook the Onions
After the garlic has been sautéed, add the diced onions to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook them for about 5 minutes, or until they turn translucent. This process caramelizes the onions, enhancing their sweetness and flavor, which balances the acidity of the tomatoes. -
Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Once the onions are translucent, pour in the plum tomatoes and crushed tomatoes. Use a spoon to break up the plum tomatoes if they are in large chunks. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. These spices will infuse the sauce with rich, aromatic flavors that are the hallmark of a great marinara. -
Simmer and Reduce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will deepen as it reduces, so be patient and allow it to cook down to a rich consistency. -
Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste your marinara sauce. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. You can also stir in a little extra basil or oregano to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This marinara sauce is incredibly versatile! Serve it with your favorite pasta, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. It also works wonderfully as a pizza base, a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a topping for meatballs.
Enjoy your homemade marinara!
Tips
- Consistency: If you prefer a smoother marinara sauce, use an immersion blender to puree it directly in the pot.
- Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Enhance the Flavor: For a deeper flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of red wine as it simmers.
This simple yet flavorful marinara sauce will elevate your dishes and bring a touch of homemade goodness to every meal.
