Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6 · Technique: Simmering · Storage: Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for three months.
Quick Answer
This homemade tomato sauce is easy to make with crushed tomatoes, sautéed aromatics, and fresh herbs, perfect for enhancing any dish.
As the leaves start to blush with colors of deep orange and crimson in New York City, there's something incredibly comforting about preparing homemade meals that warm both the kitchen and the soul. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, it's the perfect time to whip up a batch of my homemade tomato sauce. Whether you're tossing it with pasta for an easy weeknight dinner or using it as a base for holiday dishes, this sauce is a true culinary companion.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
This rich and flavorful tomato sauce is not only a staple for Italian dishes but also a delightful addition to your holiday meals, making it a versatile recipe to have on hand.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and comforting flavor that enhances any meal.
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
- Perfect for freezing and enjoying later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Versatile sauce that can complement pasta, pizza, or holiday dishes.
- Customizable with additional herbs and veggies for added nutrition.
Ingredients
To create this rich and flavorful sauce, you will need:
Tomatoes
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes - San Marzano tomatoes work perfectly for their sweetness.
Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil - A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is recommended for robust flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced - A sweet onion adds depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced - Vital for that inviting aroma.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Mexican oregano adds a unique twist.
- 1 teaspoon sugar - Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste - Always season to your preference!
Finishing Touch
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional) - Adds a burst of freshness just before serving.
How to Make Homemade Tomato Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to prepare your homemade tomato sauce that will warm your kitchen and delight your taste buds.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large saucepot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it's translucent and fragrant. The sweet smell of the onion caramelizing creates a beautiful foundation for the sauce.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can lead to a bitter flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and sprinkle in the dried oregano and sugar. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat! Stir everything together, and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, and you'll know it's ready when you see the oil separating slightly from the sauce. The aroma filling your kitchen is a sure sign that holidays are coming!
Step 5: Finish and Serve
If you're using fresh basil, add it just before you serve the sauce. You can blend it for a smooth texture or leave it chunky-it's entirely your call!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes greatly influences the final flavor-opt for a good brand like San Marzano.
- Skipping seasoning: Don't underestimate the importance of salt and pepper; they are essential to enhance the sauce's flavor.
- Rushing the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer is crucial for developing its deep flavors; don't rush through it!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Make it ahead: This sauce freezes beautifully. Prepare a double batch, and freeze half for a quick dinner later.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Finishing touch: Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar before serving for a nice depth of flavor!
Variations
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
- Add freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional fragrance.
- Incorporate red wine for a richer taste.
How to Serve
- Toss with your favorite pasta for a quick dinner.
- Use as a base for pizza sauce.
- Serve with meatballs for a classic dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make it Ahead: This sauce freezes beautifully. Prepare a double batch, and freeze half for a quick dinner later.
- Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I discovered how simple yet transformative quality ingredients can be for flavor. As the sauce simmers, the kitchen fills with a warmth and nostalgia that truly feels like home-a reminder of the holiday gatherings to come.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 cups · Serving Size: ½ cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 3g protein · 20g carbs · 7g fat
Recipe by:
Homemade Tomato Sauce for Cozy Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it's translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and sprinkle in the dried oregano and sugar. Stir everything together and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes until slightly thickened.
- If you’re using fresh basil, add it just before serving. Blend for a smooth texture or leave it chunky.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, then crush them before adding to the sauce.
2. How long can I store homemade tomato sauce?
Homemade tomato sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.
3. Can I make this sauce vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan as it doesn't include any animal products. Enjoy!
4. How can I thicken my tomato sauce?
To thicken your sauce, allow it to simmer longer to reduce it, or add a small amount of tomato paste to reach your desired consistency.
5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs will work just fine! Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.
