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–+ servings
30 Minute Tomato Sauce
This 30-minute tomato sauce is a versatile, quick-cook staple built on Italian flavor fundamentals. Using canned plum tomatoes and tomato paste for depth, it's balanced with garlic, onion, olive oil (or butter), and a touch of sugar. Whether you're dressing pasta, topping a pizza, or simmering meatballs, this sauce delivers a rich, satisfying taste with minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a foundational sauce to customize with herbs or spice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 38 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp butter ( or olive oil)
  • 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
  • ½ cup onion (chopped )
  • 2 cups Italian plum tomatoes (canned , with juice)
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup water
  • ½-1 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

  • Heat butter or olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and chopped onion.
  • Cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes & Paste

  • Stir in the canned tomatoes and their juices.
  • Add tomato paste and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Simmer & Season

  • Pour in the water and add sugar, starting with ½ tsp.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Until Thickened

  • Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to desired consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Tips

  • Add a small pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Stir in a handful of fresh basil right before serving.
  • Replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Simmer longer (45 to 60 minutes) for a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Add a splash of red wine during the onion sauté stage.
  • Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
  • Blend the finished sauce for ultra-silky consistency.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Mix in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan for savory depth.
  • Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals.

Nutrition

Calories: 38kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.05gTrans Fat: 0.01gSodium: 87mgPotassium: 291mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 779IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 1mg
Keyword italian cooking, pantry staples, quick sauce, simple sauce, tomato sauce, weeknight cooking
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