Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce – Classic Italian Recipe

Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce: A Classic Italian Recipe Reimagined | Magic in Kitchen

Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce

Discover the magic of Marcella Hazan’s tomato sauce—an easy, homemade Italian recipe made with just tomatoes, butter, and onion. This classic pasta sauce is rich, simple, and bursting with authentic flavor. Try it today on Magic In Kitchen!

Introduction

When it comes to iconic Italian cooking, few recipes hold a candle to Marcella Hazan’s tomato sauce. Known for its simplicity and rich depth of flavor, this classic tomato sauce recipe is a staple in Italian households and an essential in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of pasta or looking to perfect your Italian pasta sauce recipe, this easy tomato butter onion sauce delivers every time. The best part? It requires just a handful of ingredients, no chopping garlic or herbs, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

To make Marcella Hazan’s famous homemade tomato sauce, you’ll need:

• 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and halved
• Salt, to taste

Optional:

• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

These simple tomato sauce ingredients come together to create a dish that’s far more than the sum of its parts. It’s no wonder this easy Italian tomato sauce has become a beloved favorite.

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the canned tomatoes (with their juice), butter, and halved onion. Set the pan over medium heat.

Step 2: Simmer Gently Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use the back of a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes as they cook and soften.

Step 3: Season Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. The butter will mellow the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a luxuriously rich flavor.

Step 4: Remove the Onion Once the sauce is done, discard the onion halves. They will have imparted their sweetness to the sauce, but aren’t needed for serving.

Step 5: Serve Serve immediately over cooked pasta, or use in your favorite Italian dishes. This simple tomato sauce with butter works beautifully with spaghetti, penne, or ravioli.

Serving Suggestions

Marcella Hazan’s tomato sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy this dish:

• Over Pasta: Toss with freshly cooked pasta and top with Parmesan.
• With Meatballs: Use it as a rich base for homemade meatballs.
• Pizza Sauce: Let it cool slightly and use as a pizza base.
• As a Dip: Serve warm with crusty bread or mozzarella sticks.

Whether you’re serving it as a main meal or a side dish, this authentic Italian sauce elevates every plate.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, but canned San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for consistent flavor and texture.

Is this sauce freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I add garlic or herbs? Marcella’s genius is in simplicity, but you can add basil or a garlic clove if you prefer. Just note that it changes the original flavor profile.

Why use butter instead of olive oil? Butter softens the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a silky texture that olive oil can’t match.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Marcella Hazan’s tomato sauce remains a legendary recipe in the world of Italian cooking. It’s simple, elegant, and bursting with authentic flavor. Whether you’re new to homemade tomato sauces or a seasoned pro, this easy Italian tomato sauce will become your go-to.

Try it tonight, and don’t forget to bookmark Magic in Kitchen for more classic and modern recipes to elevate your everyday meals. Leave a comment below and let us know how your sauce turned out. Buon appetito!