There is nothing quite like the aroma of garlic and tomatoes simmering on the stove to make a house feel like a home. This recipe yields a generous batch of classic, velvety sauce that is perfect for a big family dinner or for freezing to use on busy weeknights. Whether you are topping a pile of pasta or layering a lasagna, this robust red sauce provides a flavorful, authentic foundation for all your favorite Italian dishes.
Recipe Details
- Yields: 10+ servings
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 45 min
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 4 (28 oz) cans of whole or diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
- 12 garlic cloves
- 3/4 cup of olive oil
- Basil (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling and finely mincing all 12 cloves of garlic.
- In a large pot set over medium-low to low heat, warm up 1/2 cup of the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant and takes on a beautiful golden hue.
- Stir in the tomato paste and all four cans of tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a steady simmer. If you enjoy a little bit of heat, add the optional red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Allow the sauce to cook uncovered for 45 minutes, making sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- To finish the sauce, stir in a pinch of salt, the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil, and the optional basil for a touch of freshness.
Tips for Success
For a smoother texture, you can use a wooden spoon to break up the whole tomatoes as they simmer, or use an immersion blender at the very end. This recipe makes a very large batch, which is excellent for meal prepping; simply cool the extra sauce and store it in airtight containers in the freezer for a quick meal later in the month.
We hope this savory, garlic-infused sauce becomes a staple in your kitchen and brings your family together around the dinner table this week.
