Description
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. Whether it’s a Sunday family meal or a weeknight dinner, this sauce will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce Base:
- 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.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Once the onions and garlic are cooked, transfer them to the crockpot.
- Add the Tomatoes and Paste: Into the crockpot, add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
- Season the Sauce: Add the sugar (if using), dried basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the Bay Leaf: Toss in the bay leaf, which will infuse the sauce with additional flavor as it cooks.
Slow-Cook the Sauce:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Remove Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- 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!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Nutrition
- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 5g