HOW TO MAKE EASY ROASTED TOMATO SAUCE: A Taste of Summer, All Year Round

Table of Contents: How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

Remember the feeling of biting into a sun-ripened tomato, bursting with sweetness and warmth? This easy roasted tomato sauce captures that essence, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful sauce perfect for cozy weeknights, festive family dinners, or even holiday gatherings.

Forget complicated recipes and hours of simmering – this method unlocks incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s a simple pleasure, a taste of summer bottled for enjoyment any time of year.

Introduction: How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

There’s something truly special about homemade tomato sauce. It’s a labor of love, a connection to generations of cooks who perfected this essential pantry staple. While many recipes call for long simmering times and intricate techniques, this easy roasted tomato sauce recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Roasting the tomatoes concentrates their natural sugars, creating a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve with a traditional simmered sauce.

The result is a rich, vibrant sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for countless other dishes. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who wants to elevate their cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a comforting, delicious meal.

This recipe is more than just a sauce; it’s an experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the tomatoes roast is intoxicating, a promise of the deliciousness to come. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the process, and appreciate the simple beauty of fresh ingredients.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, preparing a comforting family meal, or simply looking for an easy pasta sauce to brighten up a weeknight, this roasted tomato sauce is sure to become a new favorite. It’s a testament to the fact that the best things in life are often the simplest.

And the best part? It’s incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a sauce that perfectly suits your taste. This is a foundational recipe, a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. So, let’s get started and unlock the secrets to truly exceptional homemade tomato sauce!

Alternate Names & Variations

This versatile sauce goes by many names! You might also search for:

* Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
* Slow-Roasted Tomato Sauce
* Simple Roasted Tomato Marinara
* Easy Italian Tomato Sauce
* Baked Tomato Sauce
* Concentrated Tomato Sauce

For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a richer sauce, a tablespoon of butter added at the end can add a lovely velvety texture. This recipe is a fantastic base for a simple pasta sauce that can be customized to your liking.

Ingredients: How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce
How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce
  • * 2 kg (approximately 4lb) ripe tomatoes (I use a mixture and like to roast them with the vines) Quartered or roughly chopped
  • * 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • * 4-6 garlic cloves, peeled (I don’t bother chopping the garlic as it will get blended with the sauce)
  • * 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • * Small handful fresh thyme leaves
  • * ½ teaspoon chilli flakes/red pepper flakes
  • * 1 teaspoon salt
  • * Black pepper to taste
  • * For the Sauce:
  • * 2 red onions, finely chopped
  • * 2-3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • * Salt & pepper to taste
  • * 1-2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
  • * ½-1 cup vegetable stock

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • 1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
  • 2. Roast the Tomatoes: In a large bowl, toss the quartered tomatoes with olive oil, whole garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, thyme leaves, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper. Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  • 3. Roasting Time: Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. The longer they roast, the more concentrated the flavor will be. Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; if necessary, use two sheets to ensure even roasting.
  • 4. Sauté the Aromatics: While the tomatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and thinly sliced garlic and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • 5. Blend the Roasted Tomatoes: Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Transfer the roasted tomatoes (including the garlic and herbs) to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Chef’s Tip: Be careful when blending hot liquids; vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
  • 6. Combine & Simmer: Pour the blended tomato mixture into the saucepan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Add sugar (if using) and vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  • 7. Taste & Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chilli flakes to your liking. Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can skip the simmering step, but allowing the sauce to simmer will deepen the flavor.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This easy roasted tomato sauce recipe is a true kitchen staple. It requires approximately 20 minutes of prep time and 60 minutes of cook time, for a total time of 80 minutes. The recipe yields approximately 4 servings, and each serving contains roughly 150-200 calories (depending on added ingredients). It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful addition to any meal.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What sets this recipe apart is the roasting process. Roasting the tomatoes transforms their flavor, intensifying their sweetness and creating a depth that’s simply unmatched. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, resulting in a richer, more complex sauce.

This isn’t just homemade tomato sauce; it’s a flavor explosion! It’s the perfect easy comfort food for family dinners, and the minimal hands-on time makes it ideal for busy weeknights. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tomato varieties – heirloom tomatoes will add a unique sweetness and complexity.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

This roasted tomato sauce keeps beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply thaw completely and gently warm over low heat on the stovetop. Tip: When freezing, leave a little headspace in the container as the sauce will expand. This simple pasta sauce is a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade flavor whenever you need it.

People Also Ask: How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce
How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

What kind of tomatoes are best for roasting?

The best tomatoes for roasting are ripe, flavorful varieties like Roma, San Marzano, or heirloom tomatoes. Roma tomatoes are known for their meaty texture and low water content, making them ideal for sauce.

San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their sweetness and rich flavor. Heirloom tomatoes offer a wide range of colors and flavors, adding a unique complexity to your roasted tomato sauce. A mix of different varieties can create a truly exceptional sauce. Ultimately, choose tomatoes that are ripe, fragrant, and bursting with flavor – that’s the key to a delicious result.

How do you make easy roasted tomato sauce?

To make easy roasted tomato sauce, simply quarter or roughly chop ripe tomatoes, toss them with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 45-60 minutes. Then, blend the roasted tomatoes, sauté some onions and garlic, combine the two, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

It’s a surprisingly simple process that yields incredibly flavorful results. This homemade tomato sauce is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of roasting magic.

Can I roast other vegetables with the tomatoes?

Absolutely! Roasting other vegetables alongside the tomatoes can add even more depth and complexity to your sauce. Bell peppers, onions, carrots, and zucchini all work well. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time accordingly, as some vegetables may take longer to cook than others.

Adding a few sprigs of fresh basil during the last 15 minutes of roasting can also infuse the sauce with a lovely aroma. Experiment and have fun – the possibilities are endless!

How do you store homemade roasted tomato sauce?

Homemade roasted tomato sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm the sauce over low heat on the stovetop. Properly stored, your delicious simple pasta sauce will be ready to enjoy whenever you crave a taste of homemade goodness.

Conclusion: How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

There you have it – a truly exceptional easy roasted tomato sauce that’s surprisingly simple to make. We hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy of creating your own delicious, homemade sauce.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor that’s uniquely your own. We’d love to hear about your results – share your photos and comments below! Happy cooking!

You Might Also Like:

The Easy Italian Soup Recipe – Quick, Comforting & Delicious!
Irresistible Italian Meatloaf Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Family Dinner!
Easy Muffin Tin Meatloaf Recipe 🧁 | Quick, Family-Friendly Dinner Idea!
Easy Air Fryer Ground Beef Recipe – Quick & Crispy Dinner Idea!

Find Us On Pinterest and Facebook.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce

How to Make Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Description

This vibrant roasted tomato sauce bursts with deep, caramelized flavors from slow-roasted tomatoes and garlic. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce, this easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, aromatic condiment that tastes like summer in a jar.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 kg (approximately 4lb) ripe tomatoes (preferably a mix), quartered or roughly chopped
  • 23 tablespoons olive oil
  • 46 garlic cloves, peeled (left whole)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • Small handful of fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes/red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • For the sauce:
  • 2 red onions, finely chopped
  • 23 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 teaspoons sugar (optional)
  • ½1 cup vegetable stock

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Arrange tomatoes and whole garlic cloves on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and scatter rosemary, thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper over the top.
  2. Roast for 45-60 minutes until tomatoes collapse and caramelize at the edges. Remove herb stems and blend mixture until smooth.
  3. In a saucepan, sauté chopped onions and sliced garlic in olive oil until soft. Add blended tomato mixture and ½ cup vegetable stock. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Adjust consistency with more stock if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and optional sugar to balance acidity.

Notes

Tips: Use canned tomatoes off-season ➔ Storage: Keeps refrigerated for 1 week or frozen for 6 months ➔ Substitutions: Fresh oregano can replace thyme ◾ Omit chili flakes for mild sauce

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: B
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: roasted tomato sauce, homemade pasta sauce, easy Italian sauce