Olivia Carter
Marinara sauce is a classic Italian sauce that has become a staple in kitchens all over the world. Made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various herbs and spices, it is a versatile sauce that can be used in a wide range of dishes. While there are many versions of marinara sauce available in stores, nothing beats the homemade version. And what better way to make marinara sauce than in a slow cooker?
The slow cooker is the perfect tool for making marinara sauce. By cooking the sauce slowly over a long period of time, the flavors have a chance to meld together and create a rich and delicious sauce. Plus, using a slow cooker means that you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while the sauce simmers away.
One of the best things about making marinara sauce in a slow cooker is that it requires minimal effort. Simply combine all of the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it on low heat, and let it cook for several hours. The result is a sauce that is bursting with flavor and perfect for topping your favorite pasta dishes or using as a base for homemade pizza.
Delicious Marinara Sauce Recipe for Your Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering marinara sauce recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor, look no further! This slow cooker marinara sauce is the perfect addition to pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian recipes. Made from scratch with fresh ingredients, this homemade sauce is sure to impress your family and friends.
To start, gather the following ingredients: ripe tomatoes, garlic, onion, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano. This recipe calls for fresh tomatoes, which you will chop and puree in a blender or food processor until smooth. The garlic and onion are sautéed in olive oil until fragrant, then the tomato puree is added to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients.
One of the best things about using a slow cooker for marinara sauce is that it allows the flavors to develop and intensify over time. Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the sauce simmer for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The longer the sauce cooks, the richer and more flavorful it will become.
Once the sauce is done cooking, you can use it immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well, so you can make a large batch and have it on hand whenever you need a quick and delicious sauce. Whether you’re making spaghetti, lasagna, or a simple tomato and mozzarella salad, this slow cooker marinara sauce is the perfect addition to any Italian dish.
In conclusion, this delicious marinara sauce recipe for your slow cooker is a must-try for any Italian food lover. With its fresh ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your slow cooker and start making this amazing sauce today!
Ingredients for Marinara Sauce
If you want to make the best slow cooker marinara sauce at home, you’ll need a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce that can be used in various dishes like pasta, pizza, and meatballs. The ingredients listed below are essential for creating a rich and delicious marinara sauce.
1. Tomatoes:
The star ingredient of any marinara sauce is tomatoes. You can use either fresh tomatoes or canned tomato products like crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, or tomato sauce. Opt for high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
2. Onion:
To add a savory and aromatic base to your marinara sauce, onions are a must-have ingredient. You can use either yellow onions or red onions, depending on your preference. Chop them finely or dice them to blend well into the sauce.
3. Garlic:
Garlic adds a bold and distinct flavor to marinara sauce. Use fresh garlic cloves and finely mince them before adding them to the sauce. This will release all the aromatic oils and enhance the taste of your marinara.
4. Herbs:
To give your marinara sauce a burst of freshness, herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley are essential. You can use fresh herbs for a stronger flavor, or dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand. Either way, they will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your sauce.
5. Olive Oil:
Olive oil is the preferred cooking oil for marinara sauce as it complements the flavors of the tomatoes and herbs. Use extra virgin olive oil for a more robust and fruity taste. It also helps in sautéing the onions and garlic for a rich and fragrant base.
6. Salt and Pepper:
Last but not least, every marinara sauce needs a good amount of salt and pepper to enhance its overall taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, and don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices or seasonings to personalize your sauce.
By combining these high-quality ingredients in the right proportions and cooking them slowly in a crockpot, you can create a marinara sauce that will elevate any dish it’s added to. Experiment with different variations and find the perfect combination of flavors that suits your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce
Making marinara sauce in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient way to achieve a rich and flavorful sauce. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have a delicious marinara sauce that is perfect for pasta, pizza, or any other dish that calls for a tangy tomato sauce.
Here are the step-by-step instructions to make slow cooker marinara sauce:
- Gather the ingredients: You will need canned tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, garlic, dried herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme), sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a skillet, heat a little bit of olive oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Combine the ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, dried herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure that the ingredients are well combined.
- Cook on low heat: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the marinara sauce for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in a more delicious sauce.
- Blend the sauce (optional): If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired texture. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky for a more rustic sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or dried herbs if desired.
- Store or serve: Once the sauce is ready, you can either store it in airtight containers for future use or use it immediately in your favorite recipes.
With these simple steps, you can make a flavorful slow cooker marinara sauce that will elevate your dishes to the next level. Enjoy the convenience and taste of homemade marinara sauce with minimal effort!
Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Your Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is a versatile and delicious base for many Italian dishes, but sometimes it can benefit from a little extra flavor. Here are some tips to enhance the taste of your marinara sauce:
1. Add Fresh Herbs
One simple way to elevate the flavor of your marinara sauce is by adding fresh herbs. Basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary can all bring a fragrant and vibrant taste to your sauce. Chop the herbs finely and add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavors.
2. Roast the Vegetables
Roasting the vegetables before adding them to your marinara sauce can enhance their natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor. Try roasting onions, garlic, and tomatoes in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil until they are caramelized and slightly charred. Then blend them into your sauce for a rich and smoky taste.
3. Use Red Wine
For a luxurious twist, consider adding a splash of red wine to your marinara sauce. The alcohol will evaporate during the cooking process, leaving behind a deep and complex flavor. Choose a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, and add it to the sauce while it simmers.
4. Simmer for Longer
Allowing your marinara sauce to simmer for a longer period can intensify the flavors and create a richer taste. The longer cooking time allows the ingredients to meld together and develop a more complex profile. Be sure to stir occasionally and adjust the heat to prevent the sauce from burning.
5. Add a Pinch of Sugar
If your marinara sauce tastes too acidic, try adding a pinch of sugar to balance out the flavors. The sugar will help to neutralize the acidity and bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Start with just a small amount and taste as you go to avoid making the sauce too sweet.
By incorporating these tips into your cooking process, you can take your marinara sauce to the next level and create a truly flavorful and delicious base for your favorite Italian dishes.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce
If you have made a delicious batch of slow cooker marinara sauce and are wondering what to serve it with, there are plenty of options to consider. Whether you’re looking for a classic pairing or want to try something more unique, this versatile sauce can complement a variety of dishes.
One popular option is to serve your slow cooker marinara sauce over pasta. Whether it’s spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, the rich and flavorful sauce will add a delicious touch to any pasta dish. You can also add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for an extra burst of flavor.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, you can use the slow cooker marinara sauce as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or garlic bread. The combination of the warm, tomato-based sauce with the crispy, toasted bread is a match made in heaven. You can also use it as a base for homemade pizza, spreading it over the dough and adding your favorite toppings before baking.
For a twist on traditional Italian cuisine, try serving the slow cooker marinara sauce with meatballs. You can make your own meatballs using a mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and herbs, or use pre-made frozen meatballs for a quick and easy option. Either way, the combination of the savory meatballs and the tangy sauce is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Here are a few more serving suggestions for slow cooker marinara sauce:
- Use it as a sauce for eggplant Parmesan or chicken Parmesan.
- Spread it on a toasted sandwich along with some melted cheese for a delicious Italian-inspired twist.
- Top grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, with the marinara sauce for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Make a classic lasagna using the slow cooker marinara sauce as one of the layers.
- Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, such as cauliflower or Brussels sprouts, for a burst of flavor.
With all these serving suggestions, you’ll be able to enjoy your slow cooker marinara sauce in a variety of tasty and creative ways.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Marinara Sauce
Once you have made a large batch of homemade marinara sauce, you may find yourself with more than you can consume in one sitting. In order to make the most out of your delicious creation, it’s important to know how to store and freeze your marinara sauce properly.
Storing: If you plan on consuming your marinara sauce within the next few days, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to let the sauce cool down before transferring it to the container, and always use a clean spoon or ladle to prevent any contamination. Properly stored marinara sauce can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing: For longer storage, freezing is the way to go. To freeze marinara sauce, let it cool down completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing. Label each container with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen marinara sauce. When stored properly, marinara sauce can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to use your frozen marinara sauce, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the container in a bowl of cold water to speed up the process. Once thawed, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s important to note that freezing and thawing may slightly alter the texture of the sauce, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Now that you know how to properly store and freeze your homemade marinara sauce, you can enjoy its deliciousness for months to come. Whether you’re using it as a pasta sauce, pizza topping, or as a flavorful base for other recipes, your homemade marinara sauce will surely impress.
10 Best Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce
Dell'Amore Premium Marinara - Original Recipe
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 1.56 Pound (Pack of 6) |
Rao's Homemade Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
Features
| Size | 32 oz (Pack of 6) |
La San Marzano Marinara Sauce
Features
| Part Number | 550B |
| Color | ... |
| Size | 24 Ounce (Pack of 6) |
Sonoma Gourmet Plum Tomato Marinara
Features
| Size | 25 Ounce (Pack of 6) |
Gruvi Non-Alcoholic Wine - Dry Red Blend
Features
| Size | 8.4 Fl Oz (Pack of 24) |
Sterilite 4-Pack Gasket Storage Box
Features
| Part Number | 19344304 |
| Model | 19344304 |
| Color | Blue/Clear |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 54 Quart |
FAQ
How long can I store homemade marinara sauce in the refrigerator?
You can store homemade marinara sauce in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze homemade marinara sauce?
Yes, you can freeze homemade marinara sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing and freezing homemade marinara sauce is a convenient way to ensure you always have a flavorful and versatile sauce on hand. By following proper storage techniques, such as using airtight containers and labeling them with the date, you can enjoy your sauce for up to six months in the freezer. When thawing and reheating the sauce, be sure to do so gradually to preserve the taste and texture. Whether you prefer using it as a base for pasta dishes, pizza, or other recipes, having homemade marinara sauce readily available will elevate your culinary creations and save you time in the kitchen.
