There’s something utterly magical about homemade marinara—and with this Super Simple Marinara Sauce, you’re just a handful of basic pantry staples and one cozy hour away from the boldest, brightest tomato sauce you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re tossing it over pasta, spooning it onto pizza, or dipping warm bread right into the pot, this recipe just might become your new weeknight hero.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ridiculously Easy: Just toss everything into one pot and let the flavors mingle—minimal prep, maximum flavor.
- Classic, Pure Flavor: The slow simmer brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes, with garlic and onion for depth, all without any hidden sugars or additives.
- Flexible & Customizable: Spice up your Super Simple Marinara Sauce with a pinch of chili, swirl in fresh herbs, or keep it plain for picky eaters.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals: Stash it in your fridge or freezer and you’ll always have homemade sauce ready for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a few everyday ingredients transform into something unforgettable! Each one brings its own magic: sweetness, richness, and a touch of Italian charm that makes this Super Simple Marinara Sauce so special.
- Whole peeled tomatoes: Go for a good-quality large can—these are the heart and soul of classic marinara, bringing rich, sunny flavor and vibrant color.
- Yellow onion, halved: Simmered whole and removed, it infuses the sauce with mellow sweetness without overpowering.
- Garlic cloves, whole: Give the sauce lovely warmth and depth; smashing them in at the end releases all their goodness.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds body, silkiness, and that delicious Italian richness everyone craves.
- Dried oregano: Just the right amount of earthy, savory flavor for that instant “smells like an Italian kitchen” aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick—feel free to skip if you’re sensitive to spice.
- Salt: A pinch is all you need to bring the other flavors into balance, since canned tomatoes already have some saltiness.
- Optional for serving: Twirl this sauce up with your favorite pasta, sprinkle on Parmesan or vegan Parm, or add freshly chopped basil for a burst of color.
Variations
This Super Simple Marinara Sauce is endlessly adaptable—think of it as a blank canvas for your own kitchen creativity! Tweak the flavors, add extra veggies, or make it fit your favorite dietary style.
- Herb Lover’s Marinara: Toss in a few sprigs of fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for an herbaceous upgrade as the sauce simmers.
- Chunky Vegetable Marinara: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or grated carrots for extra texture and sweetness.
- Spicy Arrabbiata Twist: Use extra red pepper flakes and even a pinch of smoked paprika for a fiery, bold version.
- Extra-Garlic Version: Double the garlic and blend the sauce smooth for true garlic-lovers’ bliss.
How to Make Super Simple Marinara Sauce
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by grabbing a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan (you want something that holds heat well and won’t scorch). Pour in your canned tomatoes with all their juices, add the halved onion, slip in the whole garlic cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the dried oregano and (if you like) a pinch of red pepper flakes right over the top. Everything goes in together—no need to chop or sauté a thing!
Step 2: Simmer Low and Slow
Bring your pot to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then turn it down so the sauce bubbles softly. Let it do its thing for about 45 minutes, occasionally stirring and helping the tomatoes break down by pressing them gently with a wooden spoon. The olive oil will rise in little pools—the classic sign your sauce is silky and ready!
Step 3: Fish Out the Onion, Smash the Garlic
Once your Super Simple Marinara Sauce has simmered to perfection, fish out and discard those onion halves. Now, smash the softened garlic against the side of the pot with a fork and stir it back in—you’ll get a burst of mellow garlic in every bite. Crush the tomatoes more for a rustic sauce, or blend with an immersion blender if you prefer yours ultra-smooth.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Taste your sauce and add salt, as needed. This is the moment to make it “just right!” Serve piping hot with pasta, use it as a pizza base, or save for meal prep—no one can resist the aroma of a fresh batch of Super Simple Marinara Sauce.
Pro Tips for Making Super Simple Marinara Sauce
- Tomato Quality Matters: Reach for San Marzano or a trusted brand of whole peeled tomatoes—the better the tomato, the richer your sauce will taste.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Let your sauce bubble gently for the full 45 minutes—this is where the flavors deepen and sweeten naturally.
- Customize the Texture: Prefer a chunky sauce? Just crush with your spoon. Like it velvety-smooth? Purée with an immersion blender right in the pot.
- Make It Yours Every Time: Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning at the very end—sometimes just a dash of salt or drizzle of olive oil makes it restaurant worthy.
How to Serve Super Simple Marinara Sauce
Garnishes
Finish your marinara with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan, a scattering of torn basil leaves, or a thread of excellent olive oil for extra richness. A pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes wakes it up for grown-up palates, too!
Side Dishes
This sauce loves to be the star, but it plays beautifully with its supporting cast: think pillowy garlic bread, a fresh arugula salad, or simply steamed veggies for balance. Serve alongside roasted eggplant or zucchini for a hands-down comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Super Simple Marinara Sauce in a rustic bowl with crusty bread and let guests dip as they please, swirl it dramatically over grilled polenta, or spoon into small jars as thoughtful, homemade edible gifts. A dollop atop lasagna cups or baked eggs in tomato sauce will also wow any crowd!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let your Super Simple Marinara Sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, perfect for quick weeknight meals or snack attacks.
Freezing
This sauce is a freezer superstar! Freeze in single portions or a larger batch in well-sealed containers (leave a little space for expansion). You’ll have fresh-tasting, homemade marinara ready to rescue future dinners, all the way up to 6 months later.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your marinara in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steamy. Or pop smaller portions in the microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through. Freshen it up with a little new basil or a swirl of olive oil before serving.
FAQs
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Can I use crushed or diced tomatoes instead of whole peeled?
Yes! While whole peeled tomatoes give the best texture and deepest flavor, you can absolutely use crushed or diced as a shortcut. Just keep in mind the sauce will be less rustic, and you may want to reduce simmering time slightly.
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How can I make this Super Simple Marinara Sauce oil-free?
For an oil-free version, simply omit the extra-virgin olive oil. The sauce will still be flavorful but with a lighter body—add a splash of veggie broth for extra silkiness, if you like.
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Can I double or triple the recipe for meal prep or a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully—just use a larger pot and extend the simmer time to let all those flavors develop. Store extra portions in the fridge or freezer so you’re never far from homemade comfort food.
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Is this marinara sauce gluten-free and vegan?
You bet! Super Simple Marinara Sauce is naturally gluten-free and totally plant-based as written. Just check your can of tomatoes to make sure there are no sneaky additives, and top as you like for special diets.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to simmer up your own batch of Super Simple Marinara Sauce—it’s a recipe that proves less really is more! Let that incredible aroma fill your kitchen, and don’t be surprised when friends and family sneak “just one more” taste. Enjoy every spoonful!
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Super Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for homemade marinara sauce that is bursting with flavor. This simple marinara sauce is made with whole peeled tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a few key seasonings, creating a rich and aromatic sauce perfect for pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 large can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes*
- 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and halved
- 2 large cloves garlic, peeled but left whole
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, omit if sensitive to spice)
- Salt, to taste (if necessary)
- Optional, for serving: Cooked pasta, grated Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, additional olive oil
Instructions
- In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the tomatoes (with their juices), halved onion, garlic cloves, olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to keep the sauce at a slow, steady simmer for about 45 minutes, or until droplets of oil float free of the tomatoes. Stir occasionally, and use a sturdy wooden spoon to crush the tomatoes against the side of the pot after the sauce has cooked for about 15 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and discard the onion. Smash the garlic cloves against the side of the pot with a fork, then stir the smashed garlic into the sauce. Do the same with any tiny onion pieces you might find. Use the wooden spoon to crush the tomatoes to your liking (you can blend this sauce smooth with an immersion blender or stand blender, if desired).
- Add salt, to taste (the tomatoes are already pretty salty, so you might just need a pinch). Serve warm. This sauce keeps well, covered and refrigerated, for up to 4 days. Freeze it for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
