When it comes to cooking, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as tomatoes. Whether you’re making pasta dishes, pizza toppings, or simply a quick and easy soup, tomato sauce is a staple that’s hard to beat. And yet, with so many different flavors and variations out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 simple basic tomato sauce recipes, each one designed to showcase the best of what tomatoes have to offer. From classic marinara sauces to more adventurous options like roasted tomato basil or creamy tomato vodka, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your cooking.
So go ahead, take a look at our list below, and let the possibilities begin!
Classic Marinara Sauce
This timeless Italian sauce is a staple for any pasta lover. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the rich flavors of Italy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve over your favorite pasta.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
This classic Italian sauce from Lazio region adds a spicy kick to pasta dishes, pizzas, and more. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can create this bold and flavorful condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve the Arrabbiata sauce warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Tomato Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic tomato sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. This simple recipe combines the richness of garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce
This recipe transforms fresh tomatoes and basil into a rich, velvety sauce with deep roasted flavors. Perfect for pasta dishes, pizza toppings, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and stir in chopped basil leaves.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer sauce to a blender to puree until smooth.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Quick Chunky Tomato Sauce
Simplify your pasta night with this effortless tomato sauce recipe that’s ready in no time! With just a few ingredients and minutes of prep, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying chunky sauce to accompany your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
This rich and tangy sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, or as a dipping option. With the addition of vodka, it adds a subtle depth of flavor that will elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, crushed (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup vodka
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Sauce
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe
This recipe creates a rich and flavorful pasta sauce by combining sun-dried tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti, linguine)
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Over medium heat, cook for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and serve with the sun-dried tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tomato and Red Pepper Sauce
This vibrant sauce is a perfect blend of sweet tomatoes and smoky red peppers, ideal for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. With its bold flavors and tender texture, it’s a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and red peppers, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Tomato Bolognese
This classic Italian pasta sauce recipe simmers all day to create a rich and flavorful bolognese that’s perfect for serving with spaghetti, lasagna, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup of red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve with cooked pasta, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Tomato and Mushroom Ragu
This rich and flavorful ragu is perfect for serving with pasta, risotto, or as a dipping sauce. With its deep tomato flavor and earthy undertones from the mushrooms, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tomato and Olive Tapenade Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or grilled meats with this rich and savory tomato and olive tapenade sauce. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, it’s a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chopped olives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Caramelized Onion Sauce
Tomato and Caramelized Onion Sauce Recipe
This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, pizza, or as a dip. With the sweetness of caramelized onions and the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, this sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
This creamy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, chicken, or vegetables. With its rich flavor profile and vibrant green color, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated nutmeg to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, spinach, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Sausage Ragu
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This rich and flavorful ragu is made with juicy tomatoes, savory sausage, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let ragu cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened and flavors have melded.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Serve with ragu and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato and Roasted Garlic Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of summer with this simple yet flavorful tomato sauce, enhanced by the deep sweetness of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual bulbs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic bulbs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
5. Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and mash it with a fork into the tomato mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Artichoke Sauce
This creamy sauce combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the savory flavor of artichokes, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Zucchini Sauce
This simple yet flavorful sauce is perfect for topping pasta, using as a dip, or serving with grilled meats or vegetables. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying the taste of summer in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down and release their juices.
3. Add the grated zucchini and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato and Pesto Fusion Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this simple yet flavorful Tomato and Pesto Fusion Sauce recipe. This condiment is perfect for pasta dishes, pizza toppings, or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, pesto sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, this is a no-cook recipe!
Tomato and Eggplant Caponata Sauce
This classic Italian sauce is a staple of Sicilian cuisine, combining the sweet flavors of tomatoes and eggplants with the tanginess of capers. Perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup of chopped green olives
– 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
3. Roast eggplants in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted eggplants, chopped tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Anchovy Puttanesca Sauce
Puttanesca sauce is a bold and savory condiment that originated from Naples, Italy. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the salty umami flavor of anchovies, garlic, and capers.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, and anchovy fillets (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
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