Homemade, rich, and bursting with flavor—this sauce is a game-changer! Slow-roasting tomatoes, garlic, and onions deepens their sweetness, while fresh herbs add brightness. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Sauce
✅ No preservatives – Just real, wholesome ingredients.
🔥 Depth of flavor – Roasting caramelizes the veggies for a richer taste.
⏱ Easy to make – Mostly hands-off cooking.
🍝 Versatile – Toss with pasta, use as pizza sauce, or freeze for later!
Ingredients
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12 Roma tomatoes, halved
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½ yellow onion, quartered
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1 whole garlic head, cloves peeled
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3 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½–1 cup water (for blending)
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6 oz (170g) tomato paste
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2 tbsp fresh Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), chopped
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1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
Optional add-ins:
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Red pepper flakes for heat
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Grated Parmesan for umami
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Splash of balsamic vinegar for depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Veggies
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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On a baking sheet, toss tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Roast for 45 minutes until charred and softened.
2. Blend
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Let cool 30 minutes, then transfer to a blender.
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Add ½ cup water and blend until smooth (add more water if too thick).
3. Simmer
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Pour into a pot, stir in tomato paste, herbs, and sugar.
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Simmer 1+ hour on low heat, stirring occasionally. (The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor!)
4. Serve or Store
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Toss with al dente pasta or use as a pizza base.
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Store in the fridge up to 1 week or freeze 3 months.
Pro Tips
🔸 Need more richness? Stir in a pat of butter at the end.
🔸 Too acidic? Add a pinch more sugar or a splash of cream.
🔸 Short on time? Simmer for just 30 minutes—it’ll still taste great!
Serving Ideas
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Classic Spaghetti – Top with fresh basil and Parmesan.
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Meatball Sub – Slather on toasted bread with melted mozzarella.
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Shakshuka – Use as a base for poached eggs.
Final Thought
Once you try this roasted tomato sauce, jarred versions will pale in comparison. It’s earthy, sweet, and herbaceous—everything a great sauce should be!
More Homemade Staples:
🍞 Easy No-Knead Bread
🧄 Garlic Confit
🌿 Basil Pesto