• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
She Loves Biscotti
  • Home
  • Recipe Index
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipe Index
  • About Maria
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Condiments and Sauces » Italian Marinara Sauce Recipe

    Italian Marinara Sauce Recipe

    August 23, 2021 , Updated March 7, 2025 Maria 14 Comments

    • Facebook
    • Reddit
    • Flipboard
    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video
    A bowl of freshly made Marinara Sauce.

    This classic Italian marinara sauce adds the perfect, traditional taste to any recipe that calls for a tomato-based sauce. Once you learn how to make this marinara recipe with canned tomatoes, transform a quick weeknight pasta supper into a gourmet meal in less than 25 minutes.

    A spoonful of marinara sauce next to garlic cloves.

    Authentic marinara sauce is a tomato-based sauce that is made with an array of simple ingredients -usually canned tomatoes, aromatics and fresh herbs. Simmering for twenty minutes should be sufficient to break down the tomatoes and create a homemade sauce with delicious flavors. It can be used in any recipe that calls for a tomato-based sauce. 

    Serve it over your favorite pasta or use it in layered casserole dishes like eggplant parmigiana. 

    Marinara sauce is a common condiment in Italian cuisine, and because of that, there are many variations depending on the ingredients used, personal interpretations, etc.

    The key is to keep experimenting until you find the perfect combination of ingredients and discover what you really enjoy. For example, you can start the whole process with a soffrito and end it with a splash of red wine. While the sauce is simmering, you can also add a pinch of sugar for added sweetness. 

    Although there are many ways to make a tasty marinara sauce, the main ingredient is usually canned tomatoes.

    Why use canned tomatoes

    Like all Italian cooking, the strength of the dish is in the quality of the ingredients. 

    Choosing high-quality canned whole tomatoes can actually help you make a better-tasting sauce. If the option is available, purchase whole San Marzano tomatoes packed in their own juices and not tomato sauce. These are a little sweeter and have a better flavor.

    Look for tomatoes packed in Italy as they will be of superior quality. If available in your region, make sure to purchase tomatoes that have been certified DOP. If you are interested, Serious Eats has a great article on the DOP tomato.

    These high-quality canned tomatoes are available year-round and their standard of quality is tightly regulated. Not only does this make the whole process quick and simple, but your sauce has a consistent quality. 

    What do I need to make the best marinara sauce?

    • Extra virgin olive oil. Invest in a good quality olive oil; you will taste the difference it makes.
    • Garlic cloves. Provides loads of flavor.
    • Tomatoes. Whole canned San Marzano tomatoes are a pantry staple in Italian cuisine.
    • Chili flakes. Just a little to provide a touch of heat. Feel free to add more or less. It is your choice!
    • Fresh basil leaves. This regular Italian culprit makes an important contribution to the overall flavor.
    • Salt and black pepper. To taste

    As far as accessories are concerned, it would help if you had a cutting board, a sharp knife, a wide skillet and a wooden spoon.

    Wait until you see how easily this Italian marinara sauce recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients!!

    Crushed garlic on a wooden board.

    Instructions

    A quick recipe search will provide you with infinite variations of a marinara sauce from scratch.  I prefer this simple marinara sauce best because it relies on so few ingredients. As always, feel free to experiment as there is no right or wrong way of making a delicious marinara sauce, it is all a question of taste. 

    Let’s prep the garlic

    Crush 2-3 cloves of garlic with the side of your knife. Remove the papery skins and chop off the tips. Give them a rough chop and set them aside. 

    Open up that can of tomatoes

    You need 1 can of San Marzano whole canned tomatoes (28 ounces/796 mL ) packed in their own juices and not tomato sauce (as these will be a little sweeter).

    Time to turn on the heat

    Use a large wide skillet to heat 2  tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Lower the heat to medium-low, and add the crushed garlic and a pinch of crushed chili flakes as an option. Sauté for about one minute or until lightly toasted. You know it’s time to add the tomatoes when the aroma of garlic hits the air. 

    A large pot of Marinara sauce

    Simmer the canned tomatoes

    Add the San Marzano whole canned tomatoes (28 ounces) to the sautéed garlic, turning the heat back to a medium-high. We are looking for a vigorous simmer. Stir occasionally for the next 15-20 minutes. Use the back of a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes while simmering in the saucepan. You can also use a potato masher.

    During this time, the tomatoes will thicken as the liquid evaporates. (This 15-minute window allows you more than enough time to get your pasta cooked -just in case you were planning on having pasta).

    A sprig of basil on the marinara sauce.

    The grand finale, add the basil

    When you are about to finish cooking the sauce, add 2 sprigs of fresh basil followed by seasoning to taste. 

    (If you were making a pasta dish, you would throw in the al dente pasta in this pan along with a ¼-½ cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. A couple of shakes and swirls and voila… gourmet pasta dish).

    That’s it!

    Effortless and uncomplicated.

    An easy pasta sauce recipe in just a few simple steps.

    Tips

    • There are only four basic ingredients for this authentic marinara sauce -canned tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and fresh basil. Make sure to use the freshest ingredients to make the best homemade marinara sauce.
    • When cooking the garlic, make sure it doesn’t turn dark brown because this will give the sauce an acrid taste.
    • To make a sauce with a smoother consistency, use a handheld blender or food processor.
    • If you find this quick pasta sauce tastes acidic, try adding a few pinches of sugar to balance out the taste.
    • The addition of a whole carrot while this simple pasta sauce is simmering helps reduce the acidity.
    • Add basil towards the end of cooking to maximize its flavor, as it is sensitive to overcooking.

    What is a marinara sauce used for?

    This tomato-based sauce makes a great dipping sauce for baked zucchini sticks, these garlic knots, or better yet this recipe for pizza rolls! It also contributes a great flavor to this delicious side dish of Italian-style green beans. I also love to simmer these ricotta meatballs in this delicious sauce! 

    How long does marinara sauce last in the fridge?

    Store this homemade marinara sauce safely in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to five days. For optimal safety, re-heat sauce to 145°F/62°C  before using it.

    Pizza sauce vs. marinara, what’s the difference? 

    One key difference is that authentic pizza sauce is uncooked, while most pasta sauces are usually cooked. Second of all, oregano is always used in pizza sauce whereas a marinara sauce typically does not include this fragrant herb. 

    Can you use pasta sauce for pizza?

    Pizzas come in many different varieties, and sauces for them can be as unique. A tomato-based pizza sauce typically has no cooking time before applying to the pizza dough. Although using a cooked pasta sauce can be used on a pizza, the results will vary.

    Marinara sauce and garlic.

    Recipes using marinara sauce

    This easy, tomato-based sauce makes a great starting point for your favorite comfort foods such as these zucchini lasagna rolls and this tortellini recipe. 

    Italian pasta sauces we love

    • Spicy Pasta Sauce
    • Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce
    • Basil Pesto
    • Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
    • Quick Tomato Sauce (with passata)

    A bowl of freshly made Marinara Sauce.

    Recipe inspiration

    Regional variations and family recipes will definitely play an important factor in determining everyone’s favorite marinara sauce.

    Made with fresh tomatoes? 

    Whole or crushed tomatoes?

    Chunky or pureed? 

    With or without onions?

    Addition of carrots or other vegetables?

    Sugar, honey, wine?

    I could go on, but I think you get the point. There is no right way to make this sauce. Let your taste buds be your guide.

    I have just shared with you my Mom’s marinara sauce from scratch. You can never go wrong with simple, wholesome and good quality ingredients.

    Enjoy 🙂

    THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

    If this is your first time visiting, welcome! I would love to offer you my FREE weekly e-mail newsletter delivered straight to your inbox. When you subscribe, you will also receive a FREE DOWNLOAD that summarizes my top 10 tips on How to Cook Pasta. You can unsubscribe any time you want.

    Ciao for now,

    Maria 

    ★★★★★ If you have made this marinara recipe, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!

    Recipe

    A spoonful of marinara sauce.

    Italian Marinara Sauce Recipe

    This Simple Classic Marinara Sauce Recipe is the perfect starting point for so many recipes. Just a few simple ingredients and 25 minutes is all you need.
    5 from 4 votes
    Print Save RecipeSaved! Pin Rate
    Course: Sauce
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes minutes
    Servings: 2 servings
    Calories: 131kcal
    Author: Maria Vannelli RD
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

    Enter you email below and I'll send the link to your inbox.
    PLUS, be the first to get newly published recipes!

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
    • 3 cloves garlic crushed and coarsely chopped
    • Pinch crushed chili flakes optional
    • 1 28 ounce San Marzano, whole canned tomatoes 796 mL
    • 2 sprigs fresh basil
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.
    • Add the lightly crushed garlic cloves and continue to cook for another minute or so. At this point the garlic should be fragrant. (Make sure not to overcook the garlic as this will produce a bitter sauce).
    • Add the tomatoes. You can use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to break them up as they are simmering.
    • Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to obtain a vigorous simmer.
    • Simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the sauce is thickened.
    • Add the basil and remove from heat.
    • Note: Can be made ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container for 5 days.
    • Recipe can easily be doubled.
    Enhance Your Cooking Experience!SCROLL UP for essential step-by-step photos embedded in the article above. When available, videos can be found in the next section. These visuals are designed to help you achieve perfect results every time. Happy cooking!

    Video

    Notes

    • There are only four basic ingredients for this authentic marinara sauce -canned tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and fresh basil. Make sure to use the freshest ingredients to make the best homemade marinara sauce.
    • When cooking the garlic, make sure it doesn't turn dark brown because this will give the sauce an acrid taste.
    • To make a sauce with a smoother consistency, use a handheld blender or food processor.
    • If you find this quick pasta sauce tastes acidic, try adding a few pinches of sugar to balance out the taste.
    • The addition of a whole carrot while this simple pasta sauce is simmering helps reduce the acidity.
    • Add basil towards the end of cooking to maximize its flavor, as it is sensitive to overcooking.
    Total yield is 2 cups of marinara sauce.
    1 serving = 1 cup of sauce.
    Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 18mg | Vitamin A: 105IU | Vitamin C: 1.4mg | Calcium: 8mg
    SIGN UP for Email updates!YES! Send me FREE RECIPES!

    This post was originally published on September 11, 2016 and republished on August 23, 2021 with updated content. Thanks for sharing!

     

     

    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

    Enter you email below and I'll send the link to your inbox.
    PLUS, be the first to get newly published recipes!

    • Facebook
    • Reddit
    • Flipboard

    Filed Under: Condiments and Sauces

    About Maria

    Maria Vannelli is a retired dietitian who lives in a suburb just outside Montreal, Canada. She's the founder of the food blog She Loves Biscotti. Maria hopes to inspire you and bring you and your loved ones closer together at meal times enabling you to create some memorable moments.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Ca

      February 10, 2024 at 5:38 pm

      5 stars
      Love the description and tips for this sauce. I would use it in place of pizza sauce for pizza. Pizza sauce looks like tomato paste and is too dark in my opinion. So many recipes ask for tomato paste as well but this is a lovely lighter sauce. I don’t think my grandmother ever put tomato paste in her sauce.

      Reply
      • Maria

        February 10, 2024 at 6:30 pm

        Thank you kindly Carm! yes, same here.
        If you are interested, my mom’s no cook recipe for pizza sauce is absolutely the best! Hope you get a chance to give it a try! Have a great weekend!

        Reply
    2. AnnB.

      December 08, 2022 at 9:05 pm

      5 stars
      Hi Maria,
      How are you?
      Just tripped over your site and I love it. My family was from Pofi Italy and there wasn’t a chance of a written recipe to exist after they all passed on

      Thank-you for this recipe.
      .I usually do not have fresh Basils available. Would you now how much of the dry basil to use?
      Also, i had used a quantity of 3 of the 28 ounce cans of diced tomatoes. Does it make sense to you that i would need to increase the cooing time accordingly? For example, 20 minutes for each can = 60 minutes. It tated uncooed after the 30 minutes.
      I agree cook up the garlic ahead of adding any sauce to the pan- such a release of flavor.
      Yor reply will be greatly appreciated.

      Reply
      • Maria

        December 09, 2022 at 5:46 pm

        Thanks so much for your interest Ann.
        I would use 2 teaspoons of dried basil.
        The cooking time should be about the same, give or take 5 minutes. If the taste is slightly off, it could be the tomatoes, as every tomato harvest produces different-tasting tomatoes. When this happens, I will add just a pinch of sugar, which seems to balance out the acidity. I hope that helps.

        Reply
    3. Belle

      September 26, 2018 at 11:58 am

      Hi, does the tomatoes have seeds on it?

      Reply
      • Maria

        September 26, 2018 at 4:51 pm

        Yes, these canned tomatoes do have seeds. Thanks for stopping by 🙂

        Reply
    4. Charlotte Oates

      November 07, 2016 at 11:58 am

      It never occurred to me to check where my tinned tomatoes had been canned before. I’ll be checking next time I’m in the supermarket now!

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 07, 2016 at 5:32 pm

        Something so simple as canned tomatoes …it was an eye opener for me too! Thanks for dropping by Charlotte 🙂

        Reply
    5. deb@glutenfreefarina

      September 14, 2016 at 7:57 pm

      I learned something today. Thanks for the link to the explanation of DOP. I love the simplicity of marinara and I agree that there are so many versions – as many as there are people. Everyone has their own way to make it. Thanks.

      Reply
      • Maria

        September 19, 2016 at 7:31 pm

        You can’t beat a good marinara! Appreciate your comment, thanks 🙂

        Reply
    6. Rosa

      September 12, 2016 at 3:19 pm

      5 stars
      Hi Maria! What a great post!! I pinned it to try for later. BTW, I’m drooling over your photos….YUM!

      Thanks for sharing your mom’s recipe! 🙂

      Reply
      • Maria

        September 13, 2016 at 6:38 am

        Thanks Rosa 🙂 It never seizes to amaze me how flavorful this sauce is …and with such simple ingredients! Appreciate you taking the time to comment 🙂

        Reply
    7. Sonia and mom

      September 11, 2016 at 10:34 am

      5 stars
      Yes yummmmmmy! Thanks again

      Reply
      • Maria

        September 11, 2016 at 7:05 pm

        Can’t go wrong with a Simple Marinara …thanks for dropping by 🙂

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Maria from She loves biscotti

    Hi, I'm Maria! a dietitian (retired) and full-time content creator. Join me as I share traditional Italian recipes from my youth to modern twists on classics using fresh and seasonal ingredients.

    More about me →

    Subscribe and Follow

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Pinterest
    • Instagram
    • YouTube

    STRAWBERRY RECIPES

    • Strawberries and ricotta in a dessert glass.
      Easy Strawberry Ricotta Dessert
    • Baked strawberries in a baking dish.
      Roasted Strawberries: From Ordinary to Amazing!
    • Lemons and fresh strawberries surround a white dish of macerated berries.
      Macerated Strawberries: A Simple Recipe
    • A close up of icy cold frozen strawberry halves set on ice.
      How to Freeze Strawberries: 6 Easy Steps!
    Banner of sites featuring She Loves Biscotti including Buzzfeed, Huffpost, etc.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • About
    • Contact

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 She Loves Biscotti INC

    Copyright © 2025

    We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Read more