Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta Recipe
Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite as comforting, satisfying, and downright joyful as a bubbling pot of Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta simmering on your stove. This one-pan wonder brings that classic Italian flair right into your kitchen, using simple pantry staples that transform into a bright, herby, and deeply flavorful sauce. Whether you’re tossing it with your favorite noodles, spooning it over meatballs, or just swiping a warm slice of bread through it, this sauce delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. One taste, and you’ll wonder why you ever reached for a jar!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component earns its place, adding something special—whether it’s sweetness, body, color, or a savory punch. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why every single addition matters:
- Olive oil: The foundation—use a generous glug for richness and to help the flavors meld from the start.
- Yellow onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and body that forms the base of the sauce.
- Garlic: Essential for that irresistible aroma and deep savoriness—don’t be shy!
- Whole peeled tomatoes (28-ounce can): The soul of the sauce, giving it bold tomato flavor and a slightly chunky texture.
- Tomato paste: Boosts richness and color, and intensifies the tomato goodness.
- Salt: Balances acidity and helps all the flavors shine.
- Black pepper: Lends a mellow warmth without overpowering the sauce.
- Dried oregano: Brings earthy, classic Italian notes that make the sauce unmistakable.
- Dried basil: Adds a fragrant, sweet herbaceousness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch gives a gentle heat, totally adjustable for spice lovers.
- Sugar (optional): Just enough to tame any sharp tomato acidity—it’s a personal touch!
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Stir in at the end for a burst of color and garden-fresh flavor.
How to Make Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add those finely chopped onions and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want them soft and translucent—this is how you coax out their natural sweetness and build a mellow foundation. After that, add the minced garlic. Just thirty seconds is plenty; you’ll smell that signature savory aroma wafting from the pan. Watch it closely—it can go from fragrant to bitter in a heartbeat!
Step 2: Build the Tomato Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste. Let it cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. This step helps develop a richer, almost caramelized tomato flavor. Then, pour in the whole peeled tomatoes along with all their juices. Grab a wooden spoon or a potato masher to break up those tomatoes. You can make it as smooth or as rustic as you like—even chunky is wonderful in this Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to layer in all those seasonings. Add salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat. If your tomatoes are a touch sharp, stir in the sugar. Mix everything together. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and partially cover the pot. Let it work its magic for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring now and then. The flavors really come together as the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
Step 4: Blend for Your Perfect Texture
For anyone who prefers a silky smooth sauce, now’s the time to reach for your immersion blender. Give the sauce a few pulses right in the pot until it’s as smooth as you like. Or just leave it chunky for a more rustic, hearty texture—it’s personal preference!
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Finally, stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Give the sauce a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. That’s it—you’ve just made Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta from scratch, and your kitchen smells incredible.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil, parsley, or even grated Parmesan cheese makes this sauce pop visually and flavor-wise. For vegan flair, try toasted pine nuts or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. These little extras add a restaurant-quality touch to every plate.
Side Dishes
While Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta is fabulous on its own, it plays so well with others. Crusty garlic bread, a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette, or a bowl of marinated olives are all classic partners. Love protein? Pair with simple grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or classic Italian meatballs for a meal that’s both cozy and impressive.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Layer this Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter twist. Spoon it over homemade pizza for a classic pie, pour it in a baking dish for stuffed shells or manicotti, or serve as a vibrant dip with cheesy breadsticks at parties. It’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra sauce? Lucky you! Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. This Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta will keep beautifully in your refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a lifesaver for last-minute weeknight dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, marinara sauce is a freezer’s best friend. Pour completely cooled sauce into zip-top bags or sturdy containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Tip: Freeze in smaller portions, so you only defrost what you need for one meal!
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta again, just thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen) and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally, and add a splash of water if it gets a bit thick. It’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Simply substitute about 2 pounds of ripe, juicy tomatoes for the canned. Score the skins, blanch, peel, chop, and proceed with the recipe. The flavor will be more delicate and sweet—perfect in the summer months.
Is Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! The recipe as written contains no gluten or animal products, making it naturally suitable for both vegan and gluten-free diets. Just double-check any packaged ingredients to be sure.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes to encourage some of that moisture to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, richer marinade. You can also stir in a little extra tomato paste if you like a more concentrated sauce.
Can I add extra veggies or meat?
Of course! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or even chopped spinach blend right in and boost nutrition and flavor. For heartiness, brown some ground meat or Italian sausage before adding your onions and proceed as usual.
What kind of pasta pairs best with marinara?
You can’t go wrong with classic spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne, but this Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta also shines over ravioli, tortellini, or even as a base for baked ziti. Its balanced flavor complements nearly any pasta shape or style.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making your own tomato sauce from scratch, this is the place to start. One batch of this Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta, and you’ll see just how easy, fresh, and deeply satisfying homemade Italian can be. Gather your ingredients and give it a whirl—your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce for Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 2½ cups) 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Learn how to make a quick and delicious homemade marinara sauce perfect for pasta dishes. This easy recipe is bursting with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Mix in tomato paste, whole peeled tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and sugar if desired.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover partially. Simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender.
- Finish: Stir in fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- This marinara sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Ideal for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or dipping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
