Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is a culinary gem that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful masterpiece. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping breadsticks, this sauce is a staple in many kitchens for a good reason. The slow cooker allows the tomatoes to simmer and meld their flavors beautifully, creating a sauce that is both hearty and comforting. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner, this marinara sauce is sure to impress.

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something magical about a sauce simmering in a slow cooker. The hands-off approach allows flavors to develop without demanding your attention. Cooks adore this recipe because it uses pantry staples and requires minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Plus, your home will smell incredible as the sauce cooks, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s the perfect base for a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.

The Essentials

To whip up this delightful Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 small yellow onion – diced for a sweet and savory base.
• 3 cloves garlic – minced to add depth and aroma.
• 2 (28 oz) cans Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes – the star of the sauce.
• 1 (16 oz) can Hunt’s Tomato Paste – for thickness and richness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds healthy fat and flavor.
• 2 bay leaves – infuses a subtle herbal note.
• 1 tablespoon dried basil – for that classic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – complements the basil beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar – balances acidity in the tomatoes.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste for seasoning.
• Dash of crushed red pepper – for a hint of heat.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen essentials:

• Slow cooker – your best friend for this recipe.
• Cutting board – for chopping the onions and garlic.
• Sharp knife – to make quick work of your ingredients.
• Measuring spoons – to accurately measure spices.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring the sauce.
• Can opener – to easily open canned tomatoes.

Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce: From Prep to Plate

Creating your own Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is as simple as following these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the small yellow onion and mincing the garlic. This small prep work will lay the foundation for the sauce’s flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step enhances the flavors that will develop in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the two cans of diced tomatoes, the can of tomato paste, bay leaves, dried basil, dried oregano, brown sugar, and a dash of crushed red pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix and Cook

Stir everything together to combine. Set your slow cooker on low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaves. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce directly in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Serve or Store

Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza base, or enjoy it as a dipping sauce. If you have leftovers, let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Flexibility is key in the kitchen! Here are some ideas for swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand:

• Fresh tomatoes: Use about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes instead of canned.
• Fresh herbs: Swap dried basil and oregano for fresh varieties (use about three times the amount).
• Onion alternatives: Shallots or leeks can also work as a base for your sauce.
• Sweetener options: Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar.

Mistakes That Ruin Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

Even the simplest recipes can go awry. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not sautéing the aromatics: Skipping this step can result in a flat flavor.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes dramatically affects the sauce; opt for good brands like Hunt’s.
• Overcooking: While slow cooking is forgiving, too long can lead to a burnt taste.
• Neglecting seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Store the sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. It’s great to have on hand for quick weeknight meals. You can also use it as a base for soups, stews, or even chili!

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used in place of canned. Just make sure to use about 3 pounds, and you may need to adjust the cooking time.

How can I make my marinara sauce spicier?

For extra heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also include diced jalapeños for a fresher spice.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Yes! Ground beef or sausage can be browned and added to the slow cooker for a meatier sauce. Just sauté it first before adding it to the mix.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool the sauce completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – for more delightful recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – explore various pasta dishes to pair with your marinara.
• Minimalist Baker – find simple and delicious vegan options.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. The blend of flavors from fresh ingredients and the slow cooking process creates a sauce that elevates any dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe offers a delicious foundation for countless meals. Try it out, and you might just find it becomes a staple in your kitchen!