Best Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the flavors of Italy into your kitchen, this Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce is the perfect place to start. It’s simple, authentic, and bursting with the rich taste of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Whether you’re making spaghetti, lasagna, or pizza, this sauce will instantly elevate any meal.

Made with basic ingredients and simmered to perfection, this Best Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce Recipe captures everything you love about classic Italian cooking — warmth, simplicity, and bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Tomato Sauce

• Authentic Italian flavor: Traditional ingredients, slow-simmered for depth.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples, no preservatives.
• Versatile: Perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping.
• Freezer-friendly: Make once, enjoy many times.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of fresh and simple ingredients for this Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed or peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried basil (or fresh, finely chopped)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Make Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
2. Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree to your desired texture.
5. Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Best Tomato Sauce

• Use San Marzano tomatoes: They’re naturally sweet and low in acidity.
• Don’t rush the simmer: The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
• Add a splash of wine: Red wine deepens the flavor beautifully.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a bit of butter or cream for a velvety finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce pairs perfectly with:

• Spaghetti or penne pasta
• Chicken Parmesan or meatballs
• Lasagna and baked ziti
• Homemade pizza or garlic bread dipping sauce

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use about 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and chopped.

How long does homemade tomato sauce last?
It keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for 3 months.

Can I make this sauce without onions?
Absolutely — just skip the onion and add extra garlic for flavor.

Conclusion

This Best Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce Recipe proves that the most delicious meals come from the simplest ingredients. With just a few pantry staples and a little time, you can create a rich, authentic sauce that brings the taste of Italy right to your table. Once you try it, you’ll never buy jarred sauce again! 🍅✨