There’s nothing quite like the flavor of a slow-simmered marinara sauce, bubbling away on the stovetop, filling the air with the scent of garlic, herbs, and the deep, rich aroma of perfectly ripened tomatoes.
Growing up, I can still remember the pride my grandmother would take in her sauce-making process, meticulously chopping the vegetables, selecting the ripest San Marzano tomatoes, and gently coaxing every last ounce of flavor from each ingredient.
The secret lies in the blend of herbs, the quality of the olive oil, and the patience required to let the sauce develop its full depth of flavor. Trust me, your kitchen has never smelled so inviting.
So, gather your ingredients, set aside an afternoon, and prepare to be transported to the heart of an Italian nonna’s kitchen. This marinara sauce is the stuff of dreams – and it’s about to become a staple in your home, too.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- As someone who loves to entertain, I’ve found that this marinara sauce is the perfect foundation for so many delicious dishes – from classic spaghetti to baked ziti, and even as a topping for homemade pizzas.
- The rich, velvety texture of this sauce makes it incredibly versatile. I’ve used it as a dipping sauce for meatballs, as a base for hearty soups, and even as a spread for fresh, crusty bread.
- Over the years, I’ve experimented with a few tweaks to the recipe, like adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, to suit my family’s taste buds. The beauty of this sauce is that it’s easily customizable.
- There’s something so satisfying about the process of making this sauce from scratch. The hands-on preparation and the patience required to let it simmer to perfection are well worth the effort, in my opinion.
Hearty Marinara Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 796 grams tomatoes canned whole
- 1 tsp salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 sprig fresh basil optional
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 6 cloves garlic or more to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
- While the garlic is warming, pour tomatoes into a medium bowl and squish them to your desired texture.
- Add the squished tomatoes to the pan with the garlic.
- Stir in salt and mix well.
- Increase heat to medium-high until the mixture bubbles, then reduce to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes. Add fresh basil if using.
- Serve immediately with pasta or store for later. This sauce is enough for 1 pound of pasta.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
What To Serve With Hearty Marinara Sauce?
