tomato pasta sauce

Classic 20-Minute Marinara Pasta Sauce

A classic quick marinara with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and basil for an easy homemade pasta sauce in about 20 minutes.

5Prep min
20Cook min
25Total min
4 servingsYield
Classic red marinara sauce simmering with basil in a skillet
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Recipe card

Classic 20-Minute Marinara Pasta Sauce

25 min

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 small pinch red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar, only if needed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

  2. 2

    Add crushed tomatoes, oregano and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

  3. 3

    Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 4

    Taste and add sugar only if the tomatoes are unusually sharp. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. 5

    Tear in fresh basil just before serving.

Helpful notes

  • A wide pan helps excess moisture evaporate faster.
  • Fresh basil is best added at the end so it stays fragrant.

Use this as a base for spaghetti, baked pasta, lasagna or pizza-style dishes.

Storage and freezing

Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze in airtight portions for up to 3 months.