Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce that’s simple, rich, and bursting with flavor. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this homemade version is fresh, versatile, and perfect for pasta, pizza, dipping, and more. Once you try it from scratch, you’ll never want store-bought again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This marinara sauce is quick to make, deeply flavorful, and naturally vegan and gluten-free. It simmers into a perfectly balanced sauce with a hint of sweetness, a touch of garlic, and the right amount of herbs. It’s ideal for meal prep and incredibly versatile—you can use it on pasta, in lasagna, with meatballs, or even as a dip for breadsticks.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
directions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste (if using), then stir to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
- For a smoother texture, blend with an immersion blender or leave it chunky.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
Makes about 4 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add red wine during the simmer for a deeper flavor
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for richness
- Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a brighter sauce
- Add anchovy paste or Parmesan rind while simmering for an umami boost
- Spice it up with more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies
storage/reheating
Store marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
This sauce freezes well—cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before using.
FAQs
What’s the difference between marinara and spaghetti sauce?
Marinara is typically lighter and quicker to make, while spaghetti sauce often includes meat and a longer cook time.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, use peeled and chopped Roma or San Marzano tomatoes. Cook them down longer to thicken the sauce.
Do I have to use tomato paste?
No, but it adds extra depth and a richer texture.
Is marinara sauce spicy?
Not usually, but you can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Can I blend the sauce?
Yes, use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency or leave it chunky.
Is marinara sauce vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
How do I thicken marinara sauce?
Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or stir in a small amount of tomato paste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—it’s even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
What can I use marinara sauce for?
Pasta, pizza, meatballs, lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, dipping mozzarella sticks, and more.
Can I freeze marinara sauce?
Yes, it freezes very well. Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Homemade Marinara Sauce is a must-have in every kitchen—simple, delicious, and endlessly useful. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a sauce that’s fresher and more flavorful than anything from a jar. Keep a batch on hand for pasta night or to elevate your favorite Italian dishes.
Print
Marinara Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups (6 servings)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic homemade Marinara Sauce is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Simmered with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, it’s perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or dipping breadsticks. A pantry-friendly staple you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
-
2 teaspoons dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
-
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
-
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
-
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
-
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
-
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
-
Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
-
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
-
Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, and tomato paste (if using).
-
Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
-
Stir in fresh basil during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Serve warm or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
-
For a smoother texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender.
-
Use San Marzano tomatoes for a more authentic, sweeter flavor.
-
Great for pasta, lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, or pizza.