You’ll never reach for jarred sauce again after trying this homemade marinara sauce. Thick, rich, and bright with fresh tomato and basil, this simple tomato basil sauce relies on a handful of quality ingredients and minimal hands-on time. It takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so it’s perfect for weeknight dinners and make-ahead batches.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Made from pantry staples — no artificial flavors or preservatives — it tastes fresh and authentic.
- Fast to prepare: only about 5 minutes of prep and roughly 30 minutes total cook time.
- Versatile: toss with pasta, spoon over chicken, use on pizza, or fold into baked dishes.
- Freezer-friendly: double the batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.
Recipe ingredients
This tomato basil marinara is intentionally simple: a few ingredients combine into a bright, balanced sauce. Use the ingredient list below for best results and check the ingredient notes for easy swaps.
Ingredient notes
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté the onion and garlic and to give the sauce a silky mouthfeel. Add 1–2 tablespoons more oil if you prefer an even richer texture.
- Crushed tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes give consistent flavor and body. If available, choose a good-quality plum tomato for balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Basil: Fresh basil brightens the sauce and adds color. If fresh isn’t available, use about 1 teaspoon dried basil or another herb you enjoy.
- Tomato paste: A spoonful of tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce. If you don’t have it, the sauce will still work but may be slightly lighter.
- Sugar: A small amount tames acidity. Omit the sugar for keto or paleo variations.
How to make homemade marinara sauce
The method is straightforward: gently sauté aromatics, add tomatoes and seasonings, then simmer until the sauce is thick and flavorful. Simmering for the full 20–30 minutes will concentrate the flavors and produce a richer texture.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, tomato paste, sugar (if using), salt and pepper. Stir to combine and simmer uncovered on low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and deepened in flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Stored in an airtight container, the sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.
Can homemade marinara sauce be frozen?
Yes. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What are the best tomatoes for marinara sauce?
Use good-quality crushed tomatoes. Canned plum varieties are ideal because they balance sweetness and acidity and provide a concentrated tomato flavor.
How to serve tomato basil sauce
This marinara is incredibly flexible. Try these serving ideas:
- Toss with your favorite pasta and finish with grated cheese.
- Use as the base for homemade pizza or focaccia-style flatbreads.
- Spoon over baked stuffed shells, zucchini boats, or meatballs before baking.
- Serve as a dip for warm bread or as a condiment on sandwiches and burgers.
- Top roasted or grilled chicken, or use as a sauce for vegetable bakes.
Recipe notes
- Make ahead: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick meals.
- For a silkier sauce, add 1–2 tablespoons extra olive oil just before serving.
- Variation ideas: add red pepper flakes for heat or mix in olives or capers for a briny twist.
- Storage: refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months.
Ingredients (serves 6)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 8–10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Add crushed tomatoes, basil, tomato paste, sugar (optional), salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, then simmer uncovered on low for 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors concentrate. Adjust seasoning and serve.
Nutrition (estimate per serving)
Calories: about 98 kcal; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 5 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium and sugar will vary based on ingredients and portion size. These values are estimates intended only as a guideline.
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review below or note how you served it. All recipes and images © Flavor the Moments.
This recipe was originally published in April 2015. Photos and text have been updated to include improved visuals and clearer instructions.