Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting, homemade sauce that transforms your weeknight meals into something special, look no further. This Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is not only incredibly simple to make, but it also fills your home with the warm, inviting aroma of Italian cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta, pizza, or even as a base for other dishes. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have you saying goodbye to store-bought sauces for good!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce lies in its simplicity and the slow-cooking method that allows flavors to meld beautifully. The diced tomatoes and tomato paste form a robust base, while the sautéed onions and garlic add depth and aromatic qualities. Using dried herbs such as basil and oregano brings a classic Italian flavor profile, while a touch of brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a rich sauce without constant attention.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (28 oz) cans Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes
• 1 (16 oz) can Hunt’s Tomato Paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Dash of crushed red pepper (optional)

Before You Start: Equipment

• Slow Cooker: A standard 4-quart or larger slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe.
• Sauté Pan: For caramelizing the onions and garlic, a sauté pan is ideal.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring and mixing your sauce.
• Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of your herbs and spices.

Stepwise Method: Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker. This will be the flavor base of your marinara sauce.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Open the cans of Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes and Hunt’s Tomato Paste. Pour both into the slow cooker, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the bay leaves, dried basil, dried oregano, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using). Stir thoroughly to incorporate all the seasonings into the tomato mixture.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Allow the sauce to cook for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and develop beautifully.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaves. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as necessary. Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, use it in a lasagna, or freeze for later use.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
• Stir in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Mix in a splash of red wine during cooking for a rich, complex flavor.
• For a kick, add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

This Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is incredibly forgiving. If you have leftover vegetables, toss them in! Zucchini, carrots, or even spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor of your sauce. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Store

Once cooled, store the marinara sauce in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to one week or frozen for up to three months. For convenience, consider portioning the sauce into smaller containers before freezing, so you can easily thaw just what you need for future meals.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use them. You’ll need about 3-4 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them, then chop and add them as you would the canned tomatoes.

Is this sauce suitable for canning?

While this marinara sauce is delicious, it is not recommended for canning without further adjustments for acidity and safety. Always follow approved canning guidelines if you wish to preserve your sauce.

Can I make this sauce spicy?

Yes! To increase the heat, simply add more crushed red pepper or even diced jalapeños to the sauce. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

What can I do with leftover marinara sauce?

Leftover marinara sauce is versatile! Use it for pizza, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a base for stews and soups. You can also use it in recipes like baked ziti or eggplant parmesan.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Pasta Primavera – A quick veggie pasta dish that pairs well with marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers – Use marinara as a topping for delicious stuffed peppers.
• Meatball Subs – Fill a sub roll with meatballs and marinara for an easy dinner.

The Takeaway

Incorporating this Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce into your culinary repertoire not only elevates your meal but also brings a taste of home-cooked goodness that is hard to replicate. With minimal effort, you can create a sauce that’s rich in flavor and perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you serve it over pasta, use it in casseroles, or simply enjoy it as a dipping sauce, this marinara is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to indulge in a delicious homemade sauce that will impress family and friends alike!