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The Ultimate Quick & Easy Homemade Tomato Sauce

A mound of spaghetti topped generously with steaming, rich tomato sauce and fresh basil.

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Make a versatile, flavorful tomato sauce quickly using either fresh or canned tomatoes. This simple red sauce works well for pasta, pizza, or Italian dishes.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or 2 pounds fresh Roma tomatoes, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, add them now.
  5. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend briefly.
  7. Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh chopped basil.
  8. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed before serving over pasta or using on pizza.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor with fresh tomatoes, roast them first before adding them to the pot.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or reserved pasta cooking water.
  • This sauce freezes well for future meals.

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