Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce

A classic Italian tomato sauce made with minimal ingredients, offering a rich and authentic flavor. This simple yet luxurious sauce is beloved for its velvety texture and deep tomato taste, making it a staple in Italian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – Just four simple ingredients create an incredibly rich and smooth sauce.
• Effortless to make – No chopping, blending, or complicated steps.
• Authentic Italian tradition – A recipe from Marcella Hazan, one of the most renowned Italian chefs.
• Versatile – Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for other Italian dishes.
• Butter-infused richness – The butter adds a silky texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups canned whole plum tomatoes (about one 28-ounce can), with their juices, chopped
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and halved
• Salt, to taste

Directions

Combine Ingredients

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes (with their juices), butter, and the halved onion.
2. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture.

Cook the Sauce

1. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to maintain a slow but steady simmer.
3. Cook, uncovered, for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. As it cooks, use the back of a wooden spoon to mash any large pieces of tomato for a smoother texture.

Finalize the Sauce

1. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
2. Remove and discard the onion halves before serving.

Serving Suggestion

• Toss this sauce with your choice of pasta and serve with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
• Use it as a pizza sauce or as a base for other Italian-inspired dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving

Variations

• Chunky Texture: Instead of mashing the tomatoes, leave them whole for a more rustic sauce.
• Herbed Version: Add a sprig of fresh basil or oregano for additional depth of flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Garlic Addition: Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding the tomatoes for extra aroma.
• Creamy Sauce: Blend the sauce for an ultra-smooth consistency and stir in a splash of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

Why use butter instead of olive oil?

Butter gives the sauce a richer, silkier texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but canned tomatoes provide a consistent flavor year-round. If using fresh, peel and dice them before cooking.

Why do you remove the onion before serving?

The onion infuses the sauce with flavor without overpowering it, making it unnecessary to leave in.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Yes, you can brown ground beef or Italian sausage before adding the tomatoes for a heartier version.

What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well, but it complements any pasta shape.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients while keeping the cooking time the same.

Does this sauce need sugar?

No, the butter naturally balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making sugar unnecessary.

Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of whole?

Yes, crushed tomatoes create a smoother sauce but may not have the same depth of flavor.

What’s the best way to blend this sauce?

If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a food processor after cooking.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Conclusion

Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce with Onion and Butter is proof that simplicity can lead to incredible flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, this sauce delivers a rich, velvety texture and deep tomato taste that pairs beautifully with pasta. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or an elegant Italian dinner, this timeless recipe is sure to impress. Try it today!