Name: Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (finely diced); 6 cloves garlic (pressed); 29 ounces stewed tomatoes ((2 cans)); 28 ounces crushed tomatoes ((1 large can)); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

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When I think about comfort food, nothing warms my heart quite like a bowl of pasta topped with Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce. It reminds me of my childhood, where the fragrant aroma of simmering tomatoes would fill the kitchen, making everyone gather around the table, eager for a delicious meal. I remember the first time I made this sauce; it felt like magic as the ingredients transformed into a rich, flavorful blend. This marinara sauce isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition, creating memories with family and friends. It’s the kind of sauce that brings people together, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The best part? It’s simple to whip up, and it can be made in large batches to savor throughout the week.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Oven, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

The Charm of This Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce

Incredible Flavor Depth

The combination of stewed tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste creates a rich foundation. Each ingredient adds its unique depth, resulting in a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Endless Versatility

This sauce can be paired with just about anything! Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, using it as a base for pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, the possibilities are endless. It’s a staple that every home cook should master.

Healthier Ingredients

Making your own marinara sauce allows you to control what goes in. This means you can avoid preservatives and excess sugars often found in store-bought versions, making it a healthier choice.

Freezable and Convenient

One of the best features of this sauce is its freezability. You can make a large batch and freeze it in portions, ensuring you always have a delicious sauce at hand for a quick meal.

Time-Tested Recipe

This traditional recipe has stood the test of time, bringing warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Each batch ties me back to those cherished family moments, making it even more special.

Shopping List for Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce

When it comes to creating the perfect Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. The harmony of flavors achieved through fresh produce and pantry staples is what elevates this dish. Here’s a list of essential ingredients you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil – A great base for sautéing, it adds a rich, fruity flavor.
1 onion, finely diced – This brings sweetness and depth to the sauce.
6 cloves garlic, pressed – A must-have for that aromatic kick.
29 ounces stewed tomatoes (2 cans) – These provide a solid foundation for the sauce.
28 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 large can) – Adds a smooth texture and rich taste.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 cup chicken broth – Enhances the flavor while keeping everything moist.
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh herbs lighten and brighten the sauce.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
2 teaspoons dried oregano – A classic herb that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a sweet, slightly peppery flavor.
2 teaspoons salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper – For a bit of heat and depth.

How to Cook Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce

Making Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a homemade sauce that outshines any store-bought version.

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced onion. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it softens and starts to smell sweet.
Next, add the garlic and stir for 30 to 60 seconds. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want the garlic to brown too much or become bitter. The goal is to release its fragrant aroma.
Now, it’s time to add your canned ingredients. Pour in the stewed tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together, allowing the ingredients to mingle and combine.
Pour in the chicken broth. This will help keep the sauce moist and add another layer of flavor. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined.
Now, add in the chopped fresh parsley, granulated sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. These spices are what make the sauce sing! Mix everything well to ensure the spices are distributed evenly.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat to maintain a soft simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20 to 30 minutes; if you have time, allowing it to simmer longer, even up to 2 hours, will deepen the flavors.
After simmering, if you want a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunky texture, simply use a wooden spoon to break down some of the larger tomato pieces. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Once you’ve reached your desired consistency and flavor, remove the sauce from the heat. It’s now ready to serve!

Things Worth Knowing

Quality Ingredients Matter: Always use the freshest ingredients you can find. They significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
Simmering is Key: Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer you let your sauce sit, the more the flavors will develop.
Balance the Flavors: Taste your sauce at the end and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes it might need a pinch more salt or sugar, depending on the acidity of the tomatoes.
Keep It Covered: Covering the pot while simmering helps to retain moisture and enhances the flavors.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to adapt the Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some tips:

Storage: To store leftovers, separate into meal-sized portions, then place in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Freezing: Making this sauce a freezer meal is simple! Prepare the sauce as instructed, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Serve this sauce over your favorite pasta, in lasagna, or as a dip for garlic bread. It’s also great on pizza!
Double the Batch: This recipe yields 8 cups of sauce. Consider doubling the recipe to have plenty on hand for meal prep.
Herb Variations: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Accompaniments for Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce

There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy your Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce. Here are some suggestions to create the perfect meal:

Spaghetti: The classic pairing! Serve it over a mound of spaghetti for a comforting dinner.
Garlic Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm garlic bread into that rich sauce.
Salad: A light salad can balance the meal nicely and add a refreshing crunch.
Stuffed Peppers: Use the sauce as a base for stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and veggies for a hearty dish.
Meatballs: Whether you choose meat or plant-based, meatballs in this sauce is a match made in heaven.
Pizza Night: Use this sauce as the base for homemade pizzas topped with your favorite ingredients.
Casseroles: Incorporate the sauce into casseroles for added flavor and depth.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, you can substitute about 2 to 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes for the canned versions. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the pot. Cooking time may increase slightly, but you’ll enjoy a fresh and vibrant flavor.

If you want a little kick in your Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the other spices. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting until it reaches your desired level of heat. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take away!

When stored properly in an airtight container, your marinara sauce can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you freeze it, it can last up to 6 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container to ensure it remains delicious and fresh.

Definitely! To make this Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. All other ingredients are already plant-based, so you’re good to go. Enjoy a delicious vegan alternative without sacrificing flavor!

Conclusion

The Easy Homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce is a treasure trove of flavor that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its versatility and the ability to customize it to your liking make it a must-try recipe for every home cook. I encourage you to give it a go; you won’t be disappointed!