spaghetti marinara sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
spaghetti marinara sauce recipe
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The Best spaghetti marinara sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic spaghetti marinara sauce recipe with you! As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that my family will love. This sauce is a staple in our household, and I make it at least once a week.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. The origins of spaghetti marinara sauce date back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States.

The name ‘marinara’ comes from the Italian word for ‘of the sea,’ likely due to the use of tomatoes, which were a new ingredient in Italy at the time. This sauce has a rich history and has been enjoyed by generations of families around the world. When I taste this sauce, I’m immediately transported to Italy.

The combination of tangy tomatoes, savory garlic, and rich olive oil is truly magical. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

Simply sauté some garlic, add in a can of crushed tomatoes, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or so. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this sauce comes together! In addition to its rich flavor and history, this sauce is also incredibly healthy.

Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that’s been shown to have numerous health benefits. And let’s not forget about all the fiber and antioxidants from the garlic and olive oil. This sauce is a true winner for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for your family or friends.

Spaghetti Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti Marinara Sauce

4.7 from 1885 votes

A classic Italian dish featuring spaghetti with a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a comforting and delicious meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Spaghetti

1 lb spaghetti

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite.
4Drain and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
6Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Stir frequently to prevent burning.
8Add minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
9Be careful not to burn the garlic.
10Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar.
11Stir well to combine.
12Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
14Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving.
15Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
16Serve the marinara sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
17Toss gently to combine.
18Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Watch Video Of How Spaghetti Marinara Sauce Works

This spaghetti marinara sauce recipe is truly one of my favorites – it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for your family or friends, this sauce is sure to please.

And as an added bonus? It’s incredibly healthy thanks to all those vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the tomatoes and garlic.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Marinara Sauce

What type of tomatoes should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using crushed or diced tomatoes in a can. These have already been cooked down and will save you time in the kitchen.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 6 months.

Do I need any special equipment?

No! Just use your everyday skillet or saucepan – no fancy equipment needed.

How do I store leftover sauce?

Transfer any leftover sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I customize this recipe with other ingredients?

Sure thing! Feel free to add in some chopped onions or bell peppers if you like – just sauté them before adding in the tomatoes.

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