homemade marinara sauce recipe

The Best homemade marinara sauce recipe

I’ve been making this homemade marinara sauce recipe for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My family loves it because it’s easy to make and tastes so much better than store-bought sauce. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one is my go-to because it’s simple, yet flavorful.

The key to making a great marinara sauce is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook it slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together. This recipe uses fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, which gives it a depth of flavor that’s hard to find in commercial sauces. I love serving this sauce over pasta, but it’s also great with pizza, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce for bread.

My kids are always asking for seconds when I serve this sauce with their favorite pasta dishes. It’s also a great way to get them to eat more vegetables, as they’ll happily chomp down on a plate of pasta loaded with veggies and marinara sauce. As an added bonus, this recipe is also very healthy, as it’s made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives or additives.

I like to think that by serving my family this homemade marinara sauce, I’m giving them the best possible chance at a healthy and happy life. The slow-cooked method of making marinara sauce allows the flavors to develop and intensify over time, which makes it perfect for simmering all day while you’re busy with other tasks. This way, you can come home to a delicious meal that’s ready to be served up with some crusty bread or a side salad.

When I’m short on time, I like to use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones, but the flavor isn’t quite the same. Fresh tomatoes make all the difference in this recipe, so if you can use those instead of canned ones.

🥘Ingredients

👨‍🍳Directions

🔧Equipment

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

📝Notes

Watch Video Of How Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce Works

This homemade marinara sauce recipe is perfect for any occasion whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want something special for a holiday gathering.

It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months so you can enjoy it whenever you want.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Marinara Sauce

1. What type of tomatoes should I use for homemade marinara sauce?

You can use any type of tomatoes for marinara sauce, but I prefer to use a mix of Roma and San Marzano tomatoes. Roma tomatoes have a meaty texture and are less watery, which makes them great for sauces. San Marzano tomatoes are known for their sweetness and low acidity, which gives the sauce a rich, intense flavor. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not in season.

2. Can I make marinara sauce without onions or garlic?

Onions and garlic are key ingredients in marinara sauce because they add depth of flavor. However, if you do not like them or are allergic, you can omit them. The sauce will still be delicious, but it will have a different flavor profile. You can also try using onion powder or garlic powder as a substitute, but keep in mind that the flavor will not be as robust.

3. How long can I store homemade marinara sauce?

Homemade marinara sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To freeze, let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. Can I add meat to my marinara sauce?

Yes, you can add meat to your marinara sauce. Ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs are all great options. To do this, cook the meat separately until browned, then add it to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you have leftover meat, you can also add it to the sauce when you reheat it.

5. Can I make marinara sauce in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make marinara sauce in a slow cooker. This is a great option if you want a hands-off approach. To do this, combine all of the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Once the sauce is done, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency. Slow cooking the sauce will give it a deeper, more complex flavor.