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.
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.
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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.