Slow Cooker Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe
This Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce is a game-changer for your favorite Italian dishes! Made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a medley of herbs, it’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for pasta, pizza, or lasagna. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully over time. You can customize the texture to your liking, from chunky to smooth. Store it in jars or freeze it for a homemade sauce ready whenever you need it!
Ingredients:
10-12 large tomatoes (blanched, peeled, and chopped)
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Directions:
1. Prep the Tomatoes: Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel off the skins and chop them into small pieces. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the onions and garlic into your slow cooker. Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
4. Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to thicken as the flavors meld together.
5. Add Fresh Basil: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
6. Blend or Leave Chunky: Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired texture, or keep it chunky for a rustic vibe.
7. Taste and Adjust: Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve over pasta, as a pizza base, or in your favorite Italian-inspired dishes.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store in airtight jars for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
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This rich, flavorful tomato sauce is an easy way to elevate any meal. Try it today!