Transform your pasta nights with this homemade Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce, a flavorful and comforting classic that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Featuring a medley of fresh ingredients, this sauce combines the richness of olive oil, the aromatic blend of garlic and onions, and the natural sweetness of whole peeled tomatoes, all simmered to perfection. Freshly chopped basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous touch, while a hint of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Customize the heat with optional red chili flakes and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a gourmet twist. Ready in just 40 minutes, this versatile, dairy-free, and crowd-pleasing sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta of your choice. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal-worthy indulgence, this recipe delivers authentic Italian comfort in every bite.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Pour in the canned whole peeled tomatoes, including their juices. Use a spoon or potato masher to break the tomatoes into smaller chunks.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
Remove the sauce from heat and serve it hot over freshly cooked pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Calories |
800 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.4 g | 59% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.0 g | 75% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 47 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 3084 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 69.0 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.0 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.9 g | ||
| Protein | 33.4 g | 67% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 946 mg | 73% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 1826 mg | 39% | |
*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.