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Olive garden inspired marinara sauce 2026 03 28 163305 683x1024

Olive Garden Marinara Sauce

A delicious homemade marinara sauce inspired by Olive Garden, perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 84 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 3 pieces onions (diced)
  • 9 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 7 Tbsp olive oil (or any mild flavored oil)
  • 4 Tbsp sugar Adjust according to taste
  • 5 Tbsp salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1.5 Tbsp dried basil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Add at the end for creaminess
  • 24 oz tomato paste
  • 5 Tbsp white distilled vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water Use less for a thicker sauce

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onions and sauté until they become soft.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the pot. Mix well.
  • Stir in the sugar, salt, dried basil, and white vinegar.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Let it cook for at least 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally.
  • In the last few minutes, add the parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the sugar and salt according to your taste preference. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or use less water.
Keyword Homemade Sauce, Marinara Sauce, Olive Garden