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Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce photo

Homemade Marinara Sauce

This Homemade Marinara Sauce is bursting with fresh flavors! Perfect for pasta, pizzas, and more.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce:
  • 2 28 oz cans San Marzano tomatoes
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1.5 cups finely chopped yellow onions
  • 5-10 cloves garlic minced, adjust based on preference
  • 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt add more to taste
  • 4 sprigs fresh basil 20g
  • Shredded Parmesan or Romano cheese for serving
  • Chopped basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped yellow onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes (including their juices) into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes a bit.
  4. Add the butter and salt to the pot. Stir everything together until the butter melts and is incorporated into the sauce.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the fresh basil sprigs. Cover partially with a lid and let the sauce simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt or even a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
  7. Once you're satisfied with the flavor, remove the pot from heat. Discard the basil sprigs and serve the sauce warm over your favorite pasta.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Marinara sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!