Go Back
Marinara sauce, a staple in Italian cuisine, is a timeless classic that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings spent around the table. This rich, flavorful sauce is not only fundamental to Italian cooking, but it also serves as a versatile base for countless dishes, from pasta to pizza. While store-bought marinara options are widely available, nothing beats the taste and satisfaction of making your own sauce from scratch. Homemade marinara sauce allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor that commercial products can rarely match.

Easy Classic Marinara Sauce

Discover the magic of homemade classic marinara sauce, a staple of Italian cuisine that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. With just a few key ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, you’ll create a rich sauce that enhances any dish, from pasta to pizza. This guide walks you through its history, essential ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for crafting the perfect marinara. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own sauce and elevate your meals with this timeless recipe!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

    Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. If you like a sweeter sauce, add the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

      Season: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, and let it come to a gentle simmer.

        Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

          Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or oregano according to your preference.

            Serve: Remove from heat. If desired, add fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or pizza.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6