Print

Classic Sunday Red Sauce Recipe Easy Homemade Italian Sauce for Family Meals

classic sunday red sauce - featured image
Print Recipe

A rich, slow-simmered Italian tomato sauce perfect for family meals, made with simple pantry staples and fresh herbs. This classic recipe brings warmth and tradition to your table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 (28 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup red wine (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft and the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  4. Add both cans of whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them gently with a spoon or hands. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir well.
  6. Pour in ¼ cup red wine if using, and simmer for about 5 minutes to cook off the alcohol. If skipping wine, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add ½ teaspoon sugar if the sauce is too acidic. Stir in fresh basil leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  9. Remove from heat and let the sauce rest a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve over pasta or with meatballs.

Notes

Do not rush sautéing garlic and onions to avoid bitterness. Crush canned tomatoes by hand for rustic texture. Simmer sauce gently to avoid bitterness and grainy texture. Adjust seasoning frequently. Optional additions include red wine and red pepper flakes for complexity and heat. A pat of unsalted butter stirred in before serving adds a silky finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: red sauce, Italian sauce, homemade tomato sauce, Sunday sauce, classic Italian recipe, easy red sauce, family meal sauce

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/classic-sunday-red-sauce-recipe-easy-homemade-italian-sauce-for-family-meals/