Quick Marinara Sauce

When I need a quick, no-fuss sauce, this marinara is the one I make. It’s garlicky, made with pantry staples, and ready in 20 minutes—great for pasta, pizza, and meatballs. Homemade Marinara Sauce Marinara sauce is one of those kitchen staples I make on repeat.

This version is quick, easy, and made with simple pantry ingredients—but the flavor is rich, bright, and perfectly balanced. I’m really picky about the brand of tomatoes I use, and I always get the best results with Tuttorosso crushed tomatoes (the green label). If you have a favorite you’re loyal to, go for it— San Marzano is another great option.



And unlike many store-bought jars, this homemade marinara is lighter, has fewer calories, and no added sugar—just real ingredients and bold flavor. It’s perfect with lasagna , turkey meatballs , layered into chicken parmesan , or spooned over pasta. Why You’ll Love This Marinara Sauce I’ve been making this easy marinara sauce for years instead of buying jarred sauce.

It’s so versatile and used in so many of my recipes. Here’s why it works! Ready in under 20 minutes Made with pantry staples Naturally lighter than store-bought sauces No added sugar Freezer-friendly Versatile—use it on pasta, pizza, meatballs, and more Originally published in 2011. I updated this post in 2025 after updating the photos, and simplifying the steps—it’s still my go-to marinara! Ingredients You’ll Need Here’s everything you need to make this quick tomato sauce.

See recipe card below for measurements. Olive oil – For a rich, authentic Italian base Garlic – Adds depth and classic flavor Crushed tomatoes – I use Tuttorosso (green label); San Marzano tomatoes is another great option Kosher salt and black pepper – For seasoning Dried oregano – Classic marinara flavor Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a touch of heat Bay leave – for subtle flavor Fresh basil – Stirred in at the end for a bright, herby finish How to Make Marinara Sauce Here’s the step-by-step photos. See recipe card below for printable directions.

Sauté garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add smashed garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds—don’t let it burn. Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, (if using) and bay leaf.

Stir and reduce heat to low. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly and flavorful. Finish with basil: Stir in fresh basil.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Storage Tips Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days. Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

I love freezing them in these Souper Cubes . Reheat: Warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Marinara vs.

Tomato Sauce: What’s the Difference? While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, marinara sauce and tomato sauce aren’t quite the same . Marinara sauce is a quick-cooked sauce made with just a few ingredients—typically crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. It’s light, fresh, and cooks in under 30 minutes.

Tomato sauce (also known as sugo or Sunday sauce) is usually simmered longer and may include onions, tomato paste, carrots, celery, wine, or even meat. It’s thicker, deeper in flavor, and more complex. If you’re short on time or looking for a lighter option, marinara is the way to go! But if you want a richer, slow-simmered sauce for a cozy Sunday dinner, tomato sauce might be the better fit.

More Ways to Use Marinara Sauce This is the best marinara sauce for quick weeknight meals. Here’s a few ways you can enjoy it: Serve over this giant turkey meatball or this eggplant parmesan A simple pasta sauce for baked ziti or your favorite pasta Spread on pizza or flatbread Use in chicken tender parmesan , stuffed shells or lasagna roll ups Spoon over roasted vegetables, eggplant rollatini or roasted spaghetti squash More Tomato Sauce Recipes If you love this marinara sauce, check out these five tomato sauce recipes: Garden Tomato Sauce Grape Tomato Sauce Oven Roasted Tomato Sauce Filetto Di Pomodoro Bolognese Sauce Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe Ingredients ▢ 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil ▢ 2 cloves garlic , smashed with the side of a knife ▢ 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes , I like Tuttorosso ▢ 1 small bay leaf ▢ 1 teaspoon dry oregano ▢ 2 tablespoons fresh basil , chopped ▢ kosher salt , and fresh black pepper, to taste ▢ crushed red pepper flakes , optional for heat Instructions In a medium pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute until golden, 30 to 60 seconds, being careful not to burn.

Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, (if using) and bay leaf. Stir and reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer about 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove from heat and add fresh basil. Notes Nutrition Did You Make This Recipe? Post a pic and mention @skinnytaste or tag #skinnytaste !.