Description
Learn how to make a delicious and easy homemade marinara sauce pasta that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This classic Italian dish is flavorful and comforting, making it a great option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Additional:
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
- chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and sauté. Add tomato paste, then crushed tomatoes and season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta with marinara sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- This sauce can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, ground beef, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
