BEST Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Delicious homemade marinara sauce in a bowl with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, perfect for pasta or dipping

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This homemade marinara sauce is simple, fresh, and bursting with flavors! Using juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs, it’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping!

You can whip this up in no time, and the smell? Oh, it fills your kitchen with happiness! I love serving it with spaghetti and a sprinkle of cheese on top. Yum!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps in cooking the garlic and onions. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or even butter for a different flavor.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh is best! If you’re looking for a milder taste, reduce the amount.

Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and complexity. You can swap it with shallots or even leave it out for a simpler sauce.

Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes deliver convenience and taste. If you have fresh, blend about 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes instead. For a smoother texture, use tomato puree.

Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are classics for marinara. Fresh herbs give a bright flavor, but if you’re out, you can substitute with Italian seasoning.

Sugar: This helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer, you can use honey or simply omit it if you like it tart!

What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic and Onions Without Burning?

Sautéing garlic and onions is simple but can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:

  • Heat oil over medium heat. Adding garlic too soon can make it burn quickly.
  • Add onions first and cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re soft.
  • Then, add garlic and stir it in. Keep a close eye, as garlic can burn in under a minute.
  • Stir frequently and listen for a gentle sizzle; you want them softened, not browned.

With these tips, you’ll have a flavorful base for your marinara sauce every time!

BEST Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

BEST Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes blended)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This marinara sauce recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious sauce!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil:

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This will create a nice base for your flavors.

2. Sauté Garlic and Onion:

Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them together until they are softened and fragrant—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to watch the garlic, as it can burn easily!

3. Add Crushed Tomatoes:

Now it’s time to bring in the good stuff! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and give it all a good stir to combine everything nicely.

4. Season the Sauce:

Add in the dried oregano, dried basil (or fresh if you have it), and the sugar if you choose to use it. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir well!

5. Let It Simmer:

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the flavors will come together beautifully!

6. Finish with Fresh Herbs:

When you’re almost done cooking, stir in the fresh chopped parsley. This adds a nice touch of freshness to your sauce.

7. Adjust and Serve:

Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve it warm over your favorite pasta, on pizza, or as a delicious dipping sauce!

8. Garnish and Enjoy:

If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your homemade marinara sauce!

This marinara sauce is vibrant and packed with fresh flavors, making it the perfect addition to many dishes! Happy cooking!

img src=”https://foodiefiber.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/best-homemade-marinara-sauce-recipe.webp” alt=””>

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Simply blanch them to remove the skins, then blend until smooth before adding to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time as fresh tomatoes may need a bit longer to break down.

How Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?

If you’re looking for some heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the herbs. You can also dice up a fresh jalapeño or add some diced bell pepper for a milder spice!

Can I Make This Marinara Sauce In Advance?

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally!

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