Homemade Pasta Sauce from Fresh Tomatoes

Nothing beats the rich, vibrant taste of homemade pasta sauce made from fresh garden tomatoes. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, a chunky garden-style sauce, or a slow-cooked rich and savory blend, this guide will walk you through the best methods for making, storing, and even canning your own pasta sauce. Plus, you can buy high-quality seeds from us to start growing the best tomatoes for sauce!

Why Make Your Own Pasta Sauce?

✅ Fresh, Garden-Rich Flavor – No preservatives or artificial ingredients.
✅ Cost-Effective – Turn homegrown tomatoes into delicious sauce for pennies.
✅ Customizable – Adjust seasonings, texture, and spice level to your taste.
✅ Preservation-Friendly – Make extra sauce and can or freeze it for later.
✅ Healthier Option – Control salt, sugar, and additives for a cleaner, more nutritious sauce.

Best Tomatoes for Pasta Sauce

For the best sauce, choose meaty, low-moisture tomatoes that cook down well:

• Roma Tomatoes – Classic choice for thick, rich sauce.

• San Marzano – Sweet, slightly tangy, and perfect for canning.

• Amish Paste – Large, meaty, and easy to peel.

• Cherokee Purple – Adds depth and a slightly smoky flavor.

• Brandywine – A delicious heirloom option with a balance of sweet and tart.

📌 Start growing your own sauce tomatoes with our heirloom seeds!

Homemade Pasta Sauce Recipe (Yields ~6 cups)

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs fresh Roma or San Marzano tomatoes (about 10-12 medium tomatoes)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or red wine (optional for depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Blanch & Peel – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score the bottom of each tomato with an “X” and drop them in for 30-60 seconds. Transfer to an ice bath and peel off the skins.

2. Remove Seeds (Optional) – Cut tomatoes in half and scoop out seeds for a smoother sauce.

3. Chop or Puree – Chop for a chunky sauce or blend for a smooth texture.

Step 2: Cook the Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Tomatoes & Seasonings – Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer for Flavor – Cook on low for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

4. Blend (Optional) – Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture.

5. Finish with Vinegar or Wine – Stir in balsamic vinegar or red wine for added depth.

Step 3: Store or Can the Sauce

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight jar for up to 1 week.

• Freeze – Cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

• Can the Sauce – Follow proper water bath canning instructions for long-term storage.

Canning Instructions for Long-Term Storage

What You’ll Need:

• 6 pint-sized canning jars

• Canning pot or large stockpot with a rack

• Canning funnel & jar lifter

How to Can Your Pasta Sauce:

1. Sterilize Jars – Boil jars and lids for 10 minutes.

2. Fill Jars – Ladle hot sauce into jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.

3. Seal – Wipe rims, place lids, and screw bands fingertip-tight.

4. Process in Water Bath – Submerge jars in boiling water for 35 minutes.

5. Cool & Store – Let jars rest for 12-24 hours. Check the seals before storing in a cool, dark place.

Properly canned pasta sauce lasts 12-18 months.

Variations & Flavor Boosters

🍅 Roasted Tomato Sauce – Roast tomatoes at 400°F for 30 minutes before blending for a smoky, caramelized flavor.
🌿 Garden-Fresh Herb Sauce – Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra depth.
🌶 Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce – Increase red pepper flakes for heat.
🧄 Garlic-Lover’s Sauce – Double the garlic for an intense, rich flavor.
🍷 Red Wine Marinara – Add 1/2 cup red wine for depth and richness.

Serving Suggestions

🍝 Classic Spaghetti – Toss with your favorite pasta and top with Parmesan.
🥖 Dipping Sauce – Serve warm with fresh bread.
🍆 Eggplant Parmesan – Layer sauce between roasted eggplant slices.
🍕 Homemade Pizza – Spread on a pizza crust with fresh mozzarella.
🌱 Stuffed Peppers – Use as a flavorful base for stuffed bell peppers.

Start Growing & Cooking Today!

By making your own pasta sauce from fresh tomatoes, you’ll enjoy a healthier, tastier, and more sustainable alternative to store-bought sauces. Start your garden today by ordering heirloom tomato seeds from us!

🌱 Browse our seed collection and grow fresh tomatoes for the best homemade pasta sauce!