Homemade Tomato Sauce
Making homemade tomato sauce is simple and quick. This homemade tomato sauce recipe uses basic ingredients to create rich, flavorful sauce. Better than store-bought, it’s ready in 45 minutes with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
How to Make Tomato Sauce
Choose Quality Tomatoes
Use canned San Marzano tomatoes for best results year-round. Fresh Roma tomatoes work great in summer. One 28-ounce can equals about 2 pounds fresh tomatoes.
Basic Method
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil
- Add tomatoes and seasonings
- Simmer 30-45 minutes uncovered
- Adjust seasoning and blend if desired
Key Tips:
- Don’t rush the simmer time
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Add sugar if sauce tastes too acidic
- Use immersion blender for smooth texture
Ingredients
Main:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced (optional)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil
Optional:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (deeper color)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (heat)
- Pinch of sugar (reduces acidity)
- 1 tbsp butter (richness)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add onions, cook for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute.
- Crush tomatoes by hand. Add to the pan with juice.
- Add salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust salt. Add sugar if too acidic.
- Stir in fresh basil. Blend if desired. Serve or store.
Nutrition Information
Per 1/2 cup serving:
- Calories: 60
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Uses for Tomato Sauce
Main Dishes:
- Pasta with marinara
- Pizza base
- Chicken or eggplant parmesan
- Lasagna layers
- Meatball subs
Other Uses:
- Soup base
- Braising liquid for meat
- Dipping sauce
- Shakshuka
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: 5-7 days in airtight container
Freezer: Up to 6 months in freezer bags or containers
Thawing: Overnight in fridge or cold water bath
Reheating: Stovetop over medium-low heat until simmering
Variations
Creamy: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream at end
Spicy: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Meat Sauce: Brown 1 lb ground beef first
Vegetable: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, zucchini
Conclusion
Homemade tomato sauce is easy, affordable, and delicious. This basic recipe takes 45 minutes and uses simple ingredients. Make large batches and freeze for quick future meals.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes. Use 2 lbs ripe Roma tomatoes. Blanch and peel first. I may need longer cooking time.
How do I reduce acidity?
Add a pinch of sugar or stir in 1 tbsp butter at the end.
Why is my sauce watery?
Simmer longer uncovered. Or add 1 tbsp tomato paste to thicken.
Can I skip onions?
Yes. Use extra garlic instead. Many Italian recipes use only garlic.
How long does it last?
Refrigerated: 5-7 days. Frozen: 6 months. Label with dates.