Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe | Classic Italian-Style Sauce with Garlic & Herbs
This Homemade Tomato Sauce is a timeless kitchen staple—slow-simmered to perfection with ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Whether you're making pasta, pizza, meatballs, or lasagna, this sauce delivers deep flavor and comforting aroma in every spoonful. Easy to customize and freezer-friendly, it’s perfect for meal prep or elevating weeknight dinners. Say goodbye to store-bought and hello to homemade goodness.
Equipment
- Large pot or saucepan
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
- Jars or containers for storage
- Slotted spoon and bowl (for blanching)
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 2½ lbs fresh tomatoes (Roma, San Marzano, or vine-ripened)
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil or 1 tsp dried oregano
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup grated carrot (for sweetness)
Instructions
- Blanch and peel tomatoes: Score an “X” on each tomato bottom. Boil for 30–60 seconds, then transfer to ice water. Peel and chop.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Add chopped tomatoes, salt, sugar (if needed), and herbs. Include optional add-ins if desired.
- Simmer uncovered: Cook on low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sauce will reduce and thicken.
- Blend or leave chunky: Use a blender for a smooth texture or leave rustic and chunky.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt, sugar, or herbs.
- Cool and store: Let cool before transferring to jars. Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
Notes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for best flavor.
- Canned tomatoes are a great substitute when fresh aren’t available.
- Simmer longer for richer, thicker sauce.
- Add grated carrot or bell pepper for extra nutrients.
- Label and date storage containers for easy tracking.