If you’ve ever opened a store-bought sauce and thought, ‘I can make this better,’ then this homemade tomato basil pasta sauce is for you. It’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor that’s perfect for any pasta dish. Once you try this recipe, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create your own sauce that rivals anything from a jar.
Imagine the aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh basil wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this sauce. The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of sweetness makes this sauce not just a meal component, but the star of your dinner table.
The Essence of Homemade Sauce
Creating your own tomato basil pasta sauce brings a sense of satisfaction that store-bought options can’t match.
The freshness of ripe tomatoes paired with aromatic herbs transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary.
Each ingredient plays a role, harmonizing to create a flavorful experience.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The selection of ingredients is fundamental to achieving a rich, vibrant sauce.
Olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil are the building blocks that enhance the natural flavors of tomatoes.
A hint of sugar and seasonings like oregano add depth, making the sauce both savory and sweet.
Aromatic Preparation
The cooking process begins with sautéing garlic in olive oil, releasing an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen.
When the crushed tomatoes are added, the vibrant color and texture start to evolve.
Allowing it to simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a hearty sauce.
Perfect Finishing Touches
Adding fresh basil at the end of cooking preserves its bright flavor and color.
A quick stir ensures that each bite is infused with that distinctive basil essence.
This final step elevates the sauce, making it a delightful topping for any pasta dish.
Serving Suggestions
The sauce pairs perfectly with spaghetti, but feel free to experiment with other pasta types.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a creamy richness that complements the sauce’s acidity.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and home-cooked comfort.
Storage and Enjoyment
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for future enjoyment.
Reheating it allows the flavors to develop even further, making it a convenient meal option.
Whip up a batch, and enjoy the luxury of homemade pasta sauce anytime.
The Ultimate Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
This sauce is a delightful blend of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic, resulting in a rich and savory taste that complements any pasta. It’s thick, hearty, and full of character, elevating your home-cooked dishes to a new level.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the fresh basil just before serving, giving the sauce a quick stir.
- Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 cups
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g