Ina Garten Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ina Garten’s Marinara Sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. Made with high-quality tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this versatile sauce is a staple in any kitchen and a true crowd-pleaser.

What is Ina Garten Marinara Sauce?

Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs. Ina Garten’s version emphasizes simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients, resulting in a rich, aromatic sauce that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Mini Frittata
• Ina Garten Orange Pound Cake
• Ina Garten Marinated Flank Steak
• Ina Garten New York Cheesecake

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• Simple and classic: Perfectly balanced flavors with minimal ingredients.
• Versatile: Use it for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour with mostly pantry staples.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or add extras like chili flakes or basil.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for future meals.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can of San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

• Heat the oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook the onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
• Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

• Pour in the tomatoes: Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine.
• Season: Add kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

• Add the wine (optional): Stir in the red wine if using, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
• Cook: Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.

Step 4: Adjust and Finish

• Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
• Add basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving for added freshness.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve immediately: Use the marinara sauce for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• Pasta dishes: Toss with spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine for a classic meal.
• Pizza base: Spread on pizza dough as a flavorful base.
• Meatballs: Serve alongside or over meatballs for a hearty dish.
• Garlic bread: Use as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Eggplant or chicken Parmesan: Pair with breaded and baked eggplant or chicken.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• Use high-quality tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes offer the best flavor for marinara sauce.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allow the sauce to simmer to deepen the flavor.
• Customize the seasoning: Adjust the amount of oregano, garlic, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Blend for a smoother texture: If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender.
• Double the recipe: Make extra sauce to freeze for easy future meals.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• Spicy arrabbiata: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable-loaded: Include finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• Herb-forward: Use fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for an herbaceous twist.
• Chunky style: Leave the tomatoes slightly chunky for a rustic texture.
• Rich and creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a creamy tomato sauce.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Marinara Sauce

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for longer storage: Freeze the sauce in portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently: Warm the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned marinara sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch and peel 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, then chop them before adding to the recipe. Simmer longer to achieve a rich flavor.

How can I make marinara sauce thicker?

To thicken the marinara sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period, stirring occasionally. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste for extra body.

Can I freeze marinara sauce?

Marinara sauce freezes well. Store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I substitute for red wine in marinara sauce?

You can substitute red wine with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water for a non-alcoholic option while maintaining the liquid balance.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Marinara Sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s easy to prepare and incredibly versatile.

Try it today for a delicious homemade classic that never goes out of style!

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