🍝 Easy Pasta Sauce Recipe Using Only Canned Tomatoes

A Quick, Budget-Friendly Pasta Sauce for Weeknight Dinners

If you're craving a comforting plate of pasta but don’t have fresh ingredients on hand, this easy pasta sauce recipe using canned tomatoes is your kitchen hero. It’s simple, fast, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

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🍅 Why Use Canned Tomatoes for Pasta Sauce?

Canned tomatoes are not just convenient; they’re also packed at peak ripeness, preserving their rich flavor. Whether you use whole peeled, crushed, or diced canned tomatoes, they’re the perfect base for a quick tomato sauce for pasta.

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🛒 Ingredients for Easy Canned Tomato Pasta Sauce

You only need a few pantry staples:

• 1 can (400g) whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• A pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat)

• Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Pasta Sauce with Canned Tomatoes

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Add Canned Tomatoes

Pour in the canned tomatoes. If using whole tomatoes, crush them lightly with a spoon. Stir well.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add salt, pepper, sugar, oregano, and chili flakes. Stir and bring the sauce to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally. It will thicken and the flavors will deepen.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

For a smoother texture, blend the sauce using a hand blender or standard blender. Leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic texture.

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🍝 How to Use This Pasta Sauce

This homemade pasta sauce with canned tomatoes is versatile. Toss it with:

• Spaghetti or penne

• Zoodles or veggie pasta for a low-carb meal

• Lasagna or baked pasta dishes

• Use as a pizza sauce base or dipping sauce for garlic bread

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🔄 Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are a few tasty add-ins:

• Onion: Sauté with garlic for extra sweetness

• Butter: Add a tablespoon at the end for richness

• Parmesan cheese: Stir in before serving for a creamy texture

• Mushrooms or bell peppers: Add while simmering for a veggie boost

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months

• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before use

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🔍 Trending FAQs on Canned Tomato Pasta Sauce

❓ Can I use tomato puree instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, but you may need to add water or broth to adjust thickness.

❓ Is this pasta sauce vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! It's naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for all diets.

❓ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. It freezes well, so make extra for meal prep.

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✅ Final Thoughts

This easy pasta sauce recipe using only canned tomatoes proves that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few ingredients and 20 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, flavorful sauce that rivals any store-bought jar. Say goodbye to preservatives and hello to homemade goodness!

Try it today and enjoy the perfect bowl of pasta with minimal effort.