Craving that signature Little Caesars marinara taste? Forget the drive-thru – we're making it at home! This recipe unlocks the secret to that sweet, tangy, and slightly herbaceous sauce that perfectly complements your favorite pizza. It's easier than you think, and the result? A delicious homemade marinara that will elevate your pizza night to a whole new level. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this easy recipe perfect for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (high quality for best flavor!)
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of our delicious dish.
Step 2: Build the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This is a great time to work on your pizza dough or prepare other dinner sides.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust: After 30 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more sugar for sweetness, salt for savoriness, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Remember, this is your sauce, so customize it to your liking!
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoother sauce: Use an immersion blender or carefully blend the sauce in a regular blender after simmering.
- Fresh herbs: If you prefer fresh herbs, use 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh basil.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Around 5-7 grams
- Protein: About 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 15-20 grams
This Little Caesars marinara sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your recipe book, providing a quick, easy, and delicious way to improve your homemade pizzas and other Italian dishes. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and savor the fruits of your labor!