Recreate Olive Garden Marinara Sauce at home with this easy recipe! Packed with fresh tomato flavor, Italian seasoning, and other simple ingredients, it’s perfect for pasta, dipping, or as a base for meat sauce.

overhead view of Olive Garden marinara sauce with wooden spoon in cast iron skillet

Creating a homemade version of Olive Garden’s Marinara Sauce is simpler than you might think. This easy marinara sauce is packed with fresh tomato flavor and infused with Italian seasonings, making it a staple for anyone who loves Italian recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this pasta sauce recipe is quick and foolproof which guarantees the best tomato sauce every time.

With a tomato base and a handful of simple ingredients, this sauce is perfect for any pasta dish. Pair it with spaghetti, cheese ravioli, ziti, chicken parmesan, or lasagna for an authentic Italian-inspired meal. It also doubles as a flavorful dipping sauce for breadsticks or parmesan bites or an excellent base for a hearty meat sauce, or even beef meatballs!. No matter how you serve it, this homemade marinara will improve your favorite meal. I've recently made it with this easy taco spaghetti casserole and OMG, so good!

This Olive Garden recipe is versatile and fits into busy weeknights or an easy weekend dinner. Whether you’re making a marinara for your favorite pasta or need a good sauce for pizza or stuffed shells, this homemade option is a winner. Add it to your rotation of homemade sauces and enjoy creating something truly delicious.

Olive Garden marinara sauce ingredients in individual bowls

What do I need to make this copycat Olive Garden Marinara Sauce?

Olive Oil: helps build the foundation of the sauce’s flavor and keeps the onion and garlic from sticking to the pan.
White Onion: adds a mild sweetness and depth to the marinara sauce.
Garlic Cloves: are a must-have in any good marinara sauce as they infuse into the sauce and add a savory flavor.
Canned crushed Tomatoes: are one of the main ingredients in the recipe. Using high-quality canned tomatoes makes sure that the flavors are rich and robust.
Dried Basil: adds a touch of sweetness and herbal flavor that is perfect for an authentic Italian marinara sauce.
Dried Oregano: brings a slightly earthy and peppery flavor to the sauce, which pairs well with the basil and tomatoes.
Red Pepper Chili Flakes: adds a bit of a double heat that contrasts with the sweetness of the tomatoes. You can adjust based on your spice preference.
White Sugar: is important for balancing the natural acidity and tang of the tomatoes.
Salt and Pepper: enhance the flavors. Add to taste.

wooden spoon in Olive Garden marinara sauce

How do I make this homemade marinara sauce recipe?

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Lower heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Serve with noodles, meatballs, or even as a dip for your breadsticks.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Olive Garden Marinara

Choose Quality Ingredients. Use high-quality canned tomatoes, fresh garlic, and a good olive oil for the best flavors.
Finely Chop the Onions. Finely chopping allows it to blend seamlessly into the sauce, providing flavor without large chunks.
Sauté for Depth. Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. The goal is to soften and sweeten them, not brown or burn them. This helps create a flavorful base that will enhance the entire sauce.
Make Ahead and Store. Marinara sauce gets better with time. Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to three months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Why you need to make this recipe!

Eating at home is always cheaper as you can make a large batch of this delicious sauce at a fraction of the price.
Making this marinara homemade allows you to adjust seasoning levels and get it exactly how you like it.
The recipe is perfect for all skill-levels because of its simplicity and minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Why does this recipe include sugar?

Tomatoes are naturally acidic, especially when canned. The sugar helps balance the acidity, making the sauce more palatable and flavorful. Without it, the sauce might taste sharp or tangy. If you’re avoiding sugar, you can substitute it with a pinch of baking soda.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but it requires additional prep. You’ll need about 3 to 4 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, then chop and cook them before starting the recipe. Canned tomatoes are a convenient choice, especially when tomatoes aren’t in season.

overhead view of Olive Garden marinara sauce in cast iron skillet

Can I use this sauce for pizza?

Yes! This marinara sauce works wonderfully as a pizza sauce. Simmer it a little longer or strain out some of the liquid for a thicker consistency. Spread it on your pizza dough and top with your favorite ingredients.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Marinara sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Making it ahead is a great way to save time on busy days. Gently reheat on the stovetop.

What is the best way to store Olive Garden Marinara Sauce leftovers?

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to thin out if needed, as it may thicken during storage.