Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce

Cooking tomato sauce in a slow cooker brings both convenience and comfort to your kitchen. The beauty of this Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce is that it requires minimal hands-on time while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. Your home will fill with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Plus, using high-quality San Marzano tomatoes guarantees a sweet, fresh taste that elevates this classic dish. Whether you slather it over pasta, spread it on pizza, or stir it into a casserole, this sauce is a versatile delight.

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So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something delicious. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade cooking. Gather your ingredients, grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into making a sauce that warms the soul. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for family dinners and casual gatherings alike.

Why This Recipe Works

Cooking tomato sauce in a slow cooker allows for a hands-off approach while enhancing the flavors through low-and-slow cooking. The slow cooker melds the ingredients beautifully, creating a rich and deep flavor profile that’s hard to achieve with quick cooking methods. The use of high-quality San Marzano tomatoes adds sweetness and a fresh taste, while the onion and garlic infuse the sauce with aromatic goodness, making this recipe a timeless classic ideal for any dish.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce

This Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce is not just easy to make; it’s versatile and elevates any meal. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, slathering it on a homemade pizza, or using it in a comforting casserole, this sauce promises satisfaction and warmth. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, and you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 (28-ounce) cans San Marzano tomatoes
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, peeled but left whole
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar
• 3 sprigs of fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add all ingredients (San Marzano tomatoes, butter, whole onion, garlic cloves, kosher salt, turbinado sugar, basil, and dried oregano) to a large slow cooker. Ensure that the tomatoes are evenly distributed among the other ingredients. This step sets the foundation for a beautifully balanced sauce.

Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and intensify, resulting in a rich sauce. You might find yourself daydreaming about the aroma filling your kitchen as it simmers.

Remove Aromatics

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the whole onion, garlic cloves, and basil sprigs from the sauce. Discard these solids, as they have imparted their flavor into the sauce. This step is crucial, as it leaves you with a smooth, flavorful base.

Mash or Puree Tomatoes

Using a potato masher, break up the tomatoes in the sauce to achieve your desired consistency. For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a traditional blender and puree. Experiment with the texture to find what you love best.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add more kosher salt if necessary, balancing the flavors to your liking. Every tomato and season can vary slightly, so trust your taste buds!

Serve as Desired

Use this delicious Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce immediately over pasta, pizza, or as a base for various recipes. Enjoy! The satisfaction of homemade sauce will be evident in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with your favorite pasta like spaghetti or penne. It also pairs beautifully with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. For a hearty dish, layer it with cheese and noodles for a classic lasagna. Each of these options showcases the sauce’s versatility deliciously.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. The difference truly shines in your finished sauce.
• Adjust the amount of sugar based on the acidity of your tomatoes. Some might need more to balance, while others could use less.
• Always taste before serving; every batch may need a different amount of salt. This personal touch can make all the difference.

Variations

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Just a small amount can go a long way!
• Incorporate roasted vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added depth. This can enhance the flavor further and provide nutrition.
• Consider adding protein, such as Italian sausage or ground beef, for a heartier sauce. This variation can turn your sauce into a meal on its own.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week. Alternatively, freeze the sauce in portions for up to three months; it’s perfect for quick meals later on. You’ll appreciate having homemade sauce ready when time is tight.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this tomato sauce with a simple garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or a glass of red wine to complete your Italian-inspired meal. These combinations will create an inviting dinner atmosphere, perfect for family or friends.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to peel and seed them first. Use about 3-4 pounds of fresh tomatoes for this recipe.

2. How long does this tomato sauce last in the fridge?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week when kept in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this sauce vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the butter and consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

4. Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, feel free to double the ingredients, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the larger batch. Think ahead if you’re planning for a gathering!

5. Can I add wine to my sauce?
Yes, red wine can be added for additional flavor. Just add about ½ cup while the sauce is cooking for a robust kick.

This Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, providing a delicious foundation for countless meals. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. Embrace the delightful aroma that will waft through your home, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something homemade. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner, this sauce delivers a warm and inviting flavor that speaks to the heart.

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