The Big Dipper Marinara Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with "The Big Dipper Marinara Dipping Sauce," a rich and flavorful homemade sauce that’s perfect for pairing with breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or any crispy appetizer. Made with pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a fragrant blend of oregano, basil, and garlic, this marinara sauce is simmered to perfection in just 25 minutes. A hint of sugar balances the tangy tomatoes, while optional red pepper flakes add a touch of spice. This versatile dipping sauce is quick to prepare but delivers bold, comforting flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or craving an indulgent snack, this easy, crowd-pleasing marinara sauce will be your new go-to!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring until well combined.
Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid slightly ajar, and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to balance the flavors to your preference.
If desired, garnish the sauce with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Transfer the marinara to a small serving dish for dipping and enjoy warm. Pair with breadsticks, fried appetizers, or any snack of your choice!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
527 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.2 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1274 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.7 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.3 g | 51% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.1 g | ||
| Protein | 10.2 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 214 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 7.3 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 2229 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
