Quick and Easy Marinara Sauce Recipe
A quick and easy marinara sauce recipe that combines fire-roasted and crushed tomatoes with flavorful pesto, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil for a delicious homemade tomato sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups (serves 6 to 8)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup prepared or homemade pesto
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 14 ½-ounce can fire-roasted canned tomatoes
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/2-1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 cup chopped or torn fresh basil leaves, optional
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a medium-size saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat for about 1 minute until warmed.
- Add pesto and Italian seasoning: Stir in 1/4 cup prepared or homemade pesto and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Combine tomatoes and spices: Add a 14 ½-ounce can of fire-roasted tomatoes, 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a low but steady simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend flavors.
- Adjust seasoning and add basil: Taste the sauce and add more salt if desired. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped or torn fresh basil leaves if using, for a fresh herbal note.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from heat and serve the marinara sauce over pasta, as a pizza base, or as a flavorful dip.
Notes
- Using fire-roasted tomatoes adds a smoky depth to the sauce.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to control spiciness.
- Fresh basil is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor.
- Recipe can be doubled or halved as needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/quick-and-easy-marinara-sauce-recipe/
