If you have ever craved a sauce that’s bursting with garden-fresh flavor and warms your soul, this Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Crafted from just a handful of basic ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil, this sauce achieves that bright, savory balance that makes every mouthful something special. Whether dabbed on pizza, twirled around pasta, or used as a dip, this recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity without skimping on depth or heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity, relying on a few essential ingredients that each bring something unique to the table. Every component—from the fresh tomatoes to the olive oil—plays a role in building layers of flavor, beautiful texture, and a rich, inviting color.
- 2 pounds Fresh Tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano): Blanch and peel them for a smooth, naturally sweet tomato base.
- 4-6 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that infuses the sauce as it cooks.
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used to sauté garlic and give the sauce its luscious, silky mouthfeel.
- 1 handful Fresh Basil Leaves: Torn and stirred in at the end to brighten the sauce with herbaceous notes.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle, warming kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Provides a gentle heat if you like a little spice.
How to Make Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes
Start by rinsing your tomatoes under cool water to clean them well. Then, blanch them in boiling water for about one minute. This quick hot bath loosens their skins, making them easier to peel once transferred to an ice water bath. Removing the skins gives your sauce a silky texture without any bitterness from the peel.
Step 2: Chopping the Tomatoes
After peeling, remove the tough cores of the tomatoes and chop them into small, even chunks. This ensures the sauce cooks evenly, melding the pieces into a rich, cohesive blend.
Step 3: Sautéing the Garlic
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté it until it’s just golden and fragrant—this step is crucial as it infuses the oil with that toasty, flavorful aroma that carries through the entire sauce.
Step 4: Combining Tomatoes with Garlic
Add your chopped tomatoes into the pan with the garlic and give everything a good stir. This melds the juicy tomato chunks with the aromatic oil, setting the stage for simmering and flavor development.
Step 5: Seasoning and Simmering
Sprinkle in the salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then let it cook uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the sauce thicken into that perfect consistency we all love.
Step 6: Adding Final Touches
If you want a little heat, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes now. Tear the fresh basil leaves and fold them gently into the sauce right before you remove it from the heat—this ensures the basil’s flavor stays fresh and vibrant.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Adjust your seasoning if needed, then serve the sauce piping hot over your favorite pasta, as a luscious pizza base, or a versatile dipping sauce. The result is a beautiful, homemade marinara that feels both rustic and elegant.
How to Serve Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese takes this sauce to the next level by adding a nutty, salty contrast. Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add color and a lovely herbal aroma, making every bite more inviting.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs wonderfully with a simple garlic bread to soak up every last drop, or alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness. You can even drizzle it over roasted vegetables or meatballs for a wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond pasta and pizza: use this Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe as a base for shakshuka, dollop it onto grilled polenta slices, or swirl it into a creamy risotto for a crowd-pleasing twist. It’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sauce left after your meal, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to five days—perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use. This way you can enjoy homemade flavor anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or olive oil if it feels too thick. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating brings out the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Absolutely! High-quality canned whole peeled tomatoes work well if fresh tomatoes aren’t in season. Just crush them by hand or with a spoon before adding them to the pan.
How long does it take to make this marinara sauce?
The prep is quick—about 15 minutes—while simmering the sauce takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Is this sauce spicy?
By default, the sauce is mild and aromatic, but you can easily add some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you enjoy heat.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect to prepare in advance. The flavors actually deepen if it sits in the fridge for a day. Just reheat gently before serving.
What dishes pair best with Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe?
This sauce is a natural go-to for pasta, but it also shines on pizza, as a dip for breadsticks, or spooned over grilled vegetables and meats. Its versatility makes it a true kitchen staple.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Made from simple ingredients, it’s a reminder that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. From your very first simmer to that satisfying taste, you’ll see why this sauce becomes a family favorite again and again.
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Simple Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This simple homemade marinara sauce is a classic Italian recipe featuring fresh, blanched tomatoes simmered with garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil. Perfect as a versatile base for pasta dishes, pizza, or as a dipping sauce, this sauce delivers rich, aromatic flavors with a light hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 2 pounds Fresh Tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano), blanched and peeled
Base and Seasonings
- 4–6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Herbs
- 1 handful Fresh Basil Leaves, torn
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Rinse the tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Blanch them by placing into boiling water for 1 minute, then immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking. This process makes peeling the skin easier.
- Peel and Chop: Remove the tomato skins carefully, core the tomatoes, then chop into small, bite-sized chunks to ensure a smooth consistency upon cooking.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it to preserve its flavor.
- Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan with garlic, stirring to combine the flavors evenly.
- Season and Simmer: Season the mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and help the sauce thicken.
- Add Heat and Herbs: If desired, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick. Just before serving, add the torn fresh basil leaves, stirring them into the sauce to release their aroma.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm over your preferred pasta, use as a pizza base, or as a flavorful dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use Roma or San Marzano tomatoes for a richer, less watery sauce.
- Blanching tomatoes is crucial for easy peeling and smoother texture.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate, concentrating flavors.
- Add basil at the end to preserve its fresh flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder sauce.
- The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
