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Olive Garden Marinara Sauce

Helen T. Patterson
Recreate Olive Garden’s rich, flavorful marinara sauce at home with this easy, restaurant-style recipe. Made with simple ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, this sauce comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for pasta, dipping, and more.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large saucepan
  • 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • 1 Chef’s knife (for chopping onions and garlic)
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 1 Set of measuring spoons
  • 1 Immersion blender (optional, for a smooth texture)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp sugar optional, balances acidity

Optional Additions:

  • 3-4 fresh basil leaves chopped (for fresh flavor)
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar enhances richness
  • 1 Parmesan rind adds umami depth, remove before serving

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
  • Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

  • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • If using, add Parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth of flavor.

Step 4: Blend for a Smoother Texture (Optional)

  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree until desired consistency.

Step 5: Final Touches & Serve

  • Remove from heat and taste-test the sauce. Adjust seasonings if needed.
  • Stir in fresh basil or balsamic vinegar for added freshness and richness.
  • Serve warm over pasta, breadsticks, or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor: Let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes instead of 20.
  • Make it chunky or smooth: Leave it as is for a rustic feel or blend for a smoother consistency.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Gluten-Free & Vegan: This marinara sauce is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Keyword Olive Garden Marinara Sauce