Making your own tomato sauce at home is one of the easiest and most rewarding cooking projects.
It’s fresh, flavorful, and free from preservatives. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste!
Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, using it as a pizza base, or adding it to your favorite dishes, this homemade tomato sauce is a kitchen essential. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of homemade tomato sauce is that it requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Tomatoes: 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano work best).
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for that rich, silky texture.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity).
- Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon each of oregano and basil (or use fresh if you have them).
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a little heat (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by blanching the tomatoes to make peeling them a breeze.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato using a sharp knife.
- Drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water.
- Once cooled, peel off the skins and discard them. Chop the peeled tomatoes into small chunks and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes
- Toss the chopped tomatoes into the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Season with salt, sugar (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Simmer and Reduce
- Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- As the sauce cooks, it will thicken, and the flavors will deepen. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen it.
5. Add the Herbs
- Stir in the dried oregano and basil during the last 5 minutes of cooking. If using fresh herbs, add them just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor.
6. Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency. If you like it chunky, skip this step.
Tips for the Best Tomato Sauce
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes make all the difference. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, canned whole tomatoes are a great alternative.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and adjust as the sauce cooks.
- Don’t Skip the Simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances its flavor and helps it thicken naturally.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss with spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan.
- Spread on homemade pizza for a flavorful base.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.
- Add it to casseroles or lasagna for a hearty, homemade touch.
Storing and Freezing
This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
