Slow Simmered Marinara Sauce

This Slow Simmered Marinara Sauce is rich, comforting, and packed with deep tomato flavor. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, this homemade marinara slowly cooks to perfection with minimal effort. Perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, lasagna, or dipping warm bread.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 45

Total Time 55

Servings: 4

Course: sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 28 oz cans whole San Marzano tomatoes
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
5-6 garlic cloves lightly crushed
½ large yellow onion halved
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Large handful fresh basil leaves
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
Extra olive oil for finishing

Equipment

Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Method

Warm the olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook gently for 8-10 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized and fragrant.
Crush the tomatoes by hand directly into the pot. Pour in all the juices and stir well.
Add kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and a few basil leaves. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and deeply flavorful.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Tear in the remaining basil leaves and drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving.

Rest Time (Optional)

Let the sauce rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for even deeper flavor.

Notes

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 180
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 540mg