Italian Tomato Sauce
This hearty Italian-style tomato sauce has a richer flavor and thicker texture than the basic version. Tomato paste adds body while mushrooms, garlic, basil, and oregano create a classic pasta sauce that's perfect for spaghetti, lasagna, baked ziti, and pizza.
Cooking the sauce slowly in a crock pot allows the flavors to blend together while the tomatoes naturally thicken into a rich, homemade sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 3½ cups whole peeled tomatoes
- 2/3 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Place the tomatoes, mushrooms, garlic, and onion into a blender or food processor and blend until you reach your preferred texture.
- Pour the mixture into a slow cooker.
- Stir in the tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours, stirring once or twice if convenient.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings before serving.
Kid Chef Tips
- Blend less for a chunkier sauce.
- Tomato paste naturally thickens the sauce.
- Dried herbs need time to release their flavor.
- Taste before adding more salt or herbs.
Serve Italian Tomato Sauce With...
- Spaghetti
- Lasagna
- Baked ziti
- Meatballs
- Pizza
- Stuffed shells
- Chicken Parmesan
Too Acidic?
If your tomatoes taste especially acidic, try simmering the sauce a little longer. You can also stir in a small pinch of sugar if needed, but add only a little at a time-the goal is to balance the acidity, not make the sauce sweet.
Did You Know?
Many Italian families have their own tomato sauce recipe that's been passed down for generations. Some recipes stay simple with only tomatoes, garlic, and basil, while others include onions, mushrooms, peppers, sausage, meatballs, or fresh garden vegetables.