I love making tomato basil sauce because it’s simple and tastes like summer in a jar. This sauce is perfect for pasta nights or even as a base for other dishes. I’m excited for you to try it and see how fresh ingredients can make a big difference.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are easy to find in any kitchen or supermarket. If you don’t usually keep fresh basil at home, you might want to pick some up when you go shopping since it adds a bright, fresh flavor that really makes the sauce special. Canned tomatoes are also a pantry staple, but make sure to choose good quality ones for the best taste.

Ingredients For Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Olive oil: Used to cook the onions and garlic, it adds a smooth, rich flavor to the sauce.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked until soft.
Garlic: Gives the sauce a fragrant and savory kick.
Canned tomatoes: The main base of the sauce, providing a rich tomato flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the sauce.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole dish.
Technique Tip for This Sauce
One of the most important steps in this Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe is cooking the onion until it’s translucent. That means the onion looks soft and a little see-through, not browned or crispy. Here’s how you can do it like a pro:
- Heat your olive oil in the pan over medium heat. You want it warm but not smoking.
- Add the chopped onion and spread it out evenly in the pan.
- Stir the onion every couple of minutes so it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Keep cooking until the onion turns soft and a bit see-through. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Why does this matter? Cooking the onion this way helps bring out its natural sweetness, which makes your sauce taste richer and less sharp. If you rush this step or cook the onion too fast, it might taste bitter or raw, and that can change the whole flavor of your sauce.
When I first started making this sauce, I used to crank up the heat to cook the onion faster. But then I ended up with burnt bits that made the sauce taste bitter. Now I’m patient and cook it slowly, and it really makes a difference. Also, chopping the onion into even pieces helps it cook evenly, so no crunchy surprises in your sauce!
Taking your time with the onion is a small step that makes your Tomato Basil Sauce taste so much better. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a suitable alternative for sautéing.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder taste and can add a subtle sweetness, similar to onions.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is more concentrated, so use sparingly.
canned tomatoes - Substitute with fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used if peeled and chopped, providing a fresher taste, though you may need to cook them longer to reduce the liquid.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor, but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile, but use less as it is sweeter than sugar.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used in smaller quantities as it has a more concentrated flavor, though it lacks the freshness of the herb.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Sauce
How to Store or Freeze This Sauce
Allow the tomato basil sauce to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to unwanted moisture and spoilage.
Transfer the sauce into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container or bag, as the sauce will expand when frozen.
Label each container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you use the oldest sauce first.
For short-term storage, place the sauce in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a last-minute pasta craving.
For long-term storage, freeze the sauce. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts or those who love having a homemade sauce on hand for any occasion.
To thaw frozen sauce, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can also place the sealed container or bag in a bowl of cold water to speed up the process.
Reheat the sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the sauce's rich flavors and prevents it from burning.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate the liquid evenly.
Enjoy your homemade tomato basil sauce over your favorite pasta, as a pizza base, or even as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Gently warm the tomato basil sauce on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. This method preserves the sauce's fresh flavors and aroma.
Use a microwave-safe container to reheat the sauce in the microwave. Cover it loosely to avoid splatters, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it's hot throughout. This is a quick and convenient option.
If you have a slow cooker, set it to low and let the sauce warm gradually. This method is perfect if you're not in a rush and want to maintain the sauce's rich taste and texture.
For a bit of a twist, pour the sauce into an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method can add a slightly roasted depth to the flavors.
If you're planning to use the sauce as a base for another dish, like a pasta bake, you can reheat it directly in the dish you're preparing. This allows the sauce to meld with other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste.
Essential Tools for Making This Sauce
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for heating the olive oil and simmering the sauce.
Wooden spoon: A sturdy utensil used for stirring the ingredients to ensure they are well combined and do not stick to the pan.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
Cutting board: A flat surface used to safely chop the onion and garlic.
Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the olive oil, salt, and sugar accurately.
Can opener: A device used to open the canned tomatoes easily.
Mixing bowl: An optional tool for holding the chopped basil before adding it to the sauce.
Ladle: A deep-bowled spoon used for serving the sauce once it's ready.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Use pre-chopped ingredients: Save time by using pre-chopped onions and minced garlic from the store.
Opt for crushed tomatoes: Choose crushed canned tomatoes instead of whole ones to skip the blending step.
Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.
Simmer with a lid: Cover the saucepan to reduce cooking time while simmering.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop fresh basil using a food processor instead of by hand.

Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 800 g Canned Tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add canned tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Stir well.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Sauce
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