Name: Best Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 45 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, chopped or minced; 3 to 4 cans crushed tomatoes (28 ounces each) OR 12 to 15 fresh tomatoes, peeled and crushed; 1½ teaspoons black pepper; 4 to 6 tablespoons fresh basil OR 1 to 2 tablespoons dried basil; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); ⅓ cup grated parmesan or Romano cheese

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This homemade tomato sauce is a simple yet flavorful base that elevates any pasta or dish. Made from fresh or canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it simmers slowly to develop a rich, comforting taste perfect for family meals.

Three glass jars filled with chunky red tomato sauce are shown from a top angle, with the sauce reaching close to the rim in each jar. The tomato sauce has a thick texture with visible bits of herbs and small tomato pieces, giving a rich and slightly uneven surface. The jars are placed on a white marbled textured surface with a few small green leaves scattered around. The lighting highlights the bright red color of the sauce, making it look fresh and homemade. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped or minced

3 to 4 cans crushed tomatoes (28 ounces each) OR 12 to 15 fresh tomatoes
1½ teaspoons black pepper

4 to 6 tablespoons fresh basil OR 1 to 2 tablespoons dried basil
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

⅓ cup grated parmesan or Romano cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a 5-quart or larger pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the chopped or minced garlic and cook for one to two minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 3: Pour in the tomatoes, then add black pepper, basil, and sugar if using. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a low boil.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 2 to 3 hours, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 5: During the first half of simmering, leave the pot uncovered. For the second half, cover the pot to retain moisture.

Step 6: Stir in the grated cheese and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes in season for the best flavor, or opt for good-quality canned tomatoes for convenience.
Adjust the amount of basil to suit your taste; fresh basil adds brightness while dried basil offers a deeper, earthy note.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
Omitting sugar is fine if your tomatoes are naturally sweet, but a little sugar can balance acidity.

Storage

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work well—just be sure to peel and seed them if you prefer a smoother texture. Use about 12 to 15 medium tomatoes to replace the canned amount.

Do I have to add sugar to the sauce?

Sugar is optional and helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If your tomatoes are naturally sweet or you prefer a tangier sauce, you can skip it.