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tomato sauce.

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Difficulty Level: Easy

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

Cuisine: Italian

Course: Sauce

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional for a richer flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Avoid overcooking the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. This enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Add the salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, sugar (if using), crushed red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Stir thoroughly.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 35–40 minutes. Stir every 5–10 minutes to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken and develop a deeper flavor.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh parsley, chopped basil, and butter if desired. Cook for another 2–3 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm over your favorite pasta, use as a pizza sauce, spread on sandwiches, or incorporate into casseroles and other recipes.

Tips for the Best Tomato Sauce

  • Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the richest flavor.
  • Simmering longer creates a thicker and more flavorful sauce.
  • Add fresh basil near the end of cooking to preserve its aroma.
  • Blend the sauce with an immersion blender if you prefer a smoother texture.
  • For extra richness, stir in grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

This tomato sauce pairs perfectly with:

  • Spaghetti
  • Penne
  • Lasagna
  • Pizza
  • Meatballs
  • Chicken Parmesan
  • Stuffed peppers
  • Garlic bread
  • Mozzarella sticks
  • Baked pasta dishes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 3 mg
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Potassium: 560 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
  • Total Sugars: 8 g
  • Protein: 3 g

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