Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Introduction

Crockpot Sunday Sauce is a rich, flavorful, and hearty tomato sauce that’s slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. This classic Italian sauce, often referred to as marinara or “gravy,” simmers all day, developing deep flavors that make it ideal for pasta, meatballs, or even dipping bread. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy Sunday family dinner. The whole house was filled with the warm, savory aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The sauce thickens as it simmers, creating a rich, velvety texture that clings to your favorite pasta perfectly. The combination of fresh ingredients and hours of slow cooking results in a deep, satisfying flavor that can’t be beaten.

What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly it comes together. With just a few pantry staples and the magic of the crockpot, you can create a sauce that feels like it’s been simmering on the stove all day, even when you’re busy with other tasks. It’s the perfect way to add a little Italian comfort to your week, and whether you’re hosting a big dinner or just enjoying a quiet meal, this sauce will always hit the spot.

Perfect for:

• Sunday family dinners
• Pasta nights
• Meatball subs
• Gift-giving (in jars)
• Italian food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Here’s why Crockpot Sunday Sauce will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Slow-Cooked Flavor: The long simmering time allows the sauce to develop rich, complex flavors that can’t be rushed.
• Versatile and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a variety of dishes, from pasta to meatballs and more, and the crockpot does all the work.
• Hearty and Comforting: The sauce is thick, savory, and comforting—perfect for any occasion where you need a satisfying meal.
• Minimal Effort: With the crockpot, you only need to prep the ingredients and let the magic happen as it cooks slowly.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings, add your favorite meats, or even make it a bit spicier if you like.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6-8 hours (depending on crockpot settings)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crockpot Sunday Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Olive Oil: The olive oil helps to sauté the onions and garlic, adding depth of flavor right from the start.
• Crushed and Diced Tomatoes: The base of the sauce, these provide both texture and acidity, creating a robust and tangy sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a concentrated, rich tomato flavor that enhances the sauce’s overall taste.
• Herbs and Spices: The dried basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf contribute classic Italian flavors, while the red pepper flakes give a nice kick.
• Fresh Parsley and Basil: These herbs can be used at the end for a burst of freshness that complements the sauce’s deep flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crockpot Sunday Sauce:

Prepare the Sauce Base:

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Transfer to Crockpot: Once the onions and garlic are cooked, transfer them to the crockpot.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Paste: Into the crockpot, add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
4. Season the Sauce: Add the sugar (if using), dried basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the Bay Leaf: Toss in the bay leaf, which will infuse the sauce with additional flavor as it cooks.

Slow-Cook the Sauce:

6. Set the Crockpot: Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you prefer a more intense flavor, let it cook closer to 8 hours.
7. Stir Occasionally: Every few hours, give the sauce a gentle stir to ensure it’s cooking evenly. This isn’t necessary, but it helps to prevent sticking.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: About an hour before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary.

Finishing Touches:

9. Remove Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
10. Garnish and Serve: If desired, stir in fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and a pop of color. Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta or with meatballs, and enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Crockpot Sunday Sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:

• Over Pasta: The most classic way to serve it is with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta shape.
• With Meatballs: Serve with homemade meatballs or sausage for an authentic Italian meal.
• On Subs: Use the sauce for meatball or sausage subs for a delicious handheld meal.
• As a Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.
• With Parmesan: Top any dish with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
• As a Gift: Pack the sauce into jars and gift it to friends or family for a homemade, thoughtful present.

Additional Tips for Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Here are some tips to ensure your Crockpot Sunday Sauce is perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: Fresh garlic and onion will give the sauce a more vibrant, aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced or pre-chopped versions.
• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: The bay leaf adds a subtle, herbal flavor that brings the sauce together.
• Taste and Adjust: Since tomatoes vary in sweetness and acidity, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Make Ahead: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Add Meat: If you want a meat sauce, brown ground beef, pork, or turkey and add it to the crockpot with the tomatoes.
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir the sauce once or twice while cooking, though it’s not required. It just helps to break up any tomato chunks and mix the flavors.

Recipe Variations for Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crockpot Sunday Sauce:

• Meat Lover’s Sunday Sauce: Add browned ground beef, pork sausage, or even meatballs to the sauce for a meaty and hearty version.
• Spicy Sunday Sauce: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Sunday Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms for a savory, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
• Vegetarian Sunday Sauce: Skip the meat entirely and keep it purely vegetable-based for a lighter, meat-free option.
• Balsamic Sunday Sauce: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of tang and sweetness.
• Sweet Sunday Sauce: Add a tablespoon of honey or more sugar for a slightly sweeter sauce, perfect for kids or those who love a sweeter taste.
• Garlic Lover’s Sunday Sauce: Add extra cloves of garlic for a punchier, more robust flavor.
• Roasted Tomato Sunday Sauce: Use roasted tomatoes instead of canned for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Sausage and Pepper Sunday Sauce: Brown Italian sausage with bell peppers and onions and add them to the sauce for a complete meal.
• Puttanesca Sunday Sauce: Add olives, capers, and anchovies for a bold, briny flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage for Crockpot Sunday Sauce

• Freezing: This sauce freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.

Special Equipment for Crockpot Sunday Sauce

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crockpot Sunday Sauce easier:

• Crockpot or Slow Cooker: The slow cooker is the key to this recipe, allowing the sauce to develop deep, complex flavors over hours.
• Large Pan for Sautéing: A large skillet or pan to sauté the garlic and onions before adding them to the crockpot.
• Ladle: Use a ladle for serving the sauce and getting it out of the crockpot without making a mess.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate seasoning and ingredient measurements.
• Storage Containers: Airtight containers for storing leftovers and frozen sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crockpot Sunday Sauce

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and chop them. You may also want to blend them for a smoother texture.
2. Can I add meat to the sauce?
   Absolutely! Add browned ground beef, pork, sausage, or meatballs for a heartier sauce.
3. How long can I store the sauce?
   The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make this in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?
   Yes, you can cook it on the stove, but you’ll need to simmer it for a few hours to achieve the same depth of flavor.
5. How do I make it spicier?
   Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers to taste.

Print

Conclusion

Crockpot Sunday Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, filled with rich, slow-cooked flavors that elevate any meal. This hearty sauce, simmered to perfection, is perfect for pairing with pasta, meatballs, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Its deep, savory taste comes from hours of slow cooking, allowing all the ingredients to meld together into something truly extraordinary.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep work and the help of your trusty crockpot, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying sauce ready to serve with just a little patience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this sauce will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

I’d love to see how your Crockpot Sunday Sauce turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy cooking!