1-First Step: Prepare Your Mise en Place Gather all ingredients for this easy homemade marinara sauce. Chop the onion finely and mince garlic to ensure even cooking. This quick prep, about 10 minutes, sets you up for smooth sailing, vegan or not.

2-Second Step: Heat the Oil and Saute Aromatics Warm 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes, stirring often. Toss in garlic and red pepper flakes, saute 1 minute more to build flavor without burning; gluten-free friendly.

3-Third Step: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings Pour in the two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them by hand into the pot. Stir in salt, black pepper, oregano, bay leaf, and sugar if using. Bring to a gentle simmer, perfect for low-calorie tweaks by reducing oil.

4-Fourth Step: Simmer for Depth Lower heat to medium-low, cover partially, and simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until thickened to your liking. This step develops the rich taste of authentic homemade marinara, ideal for busy parents.

5-Fifth Step: Finish and Adjust Remove bay leaf, stir in chopped basil. Taste and adjust salt or pepper. For a smoother texture, blend half with an immersion blender. Your classic marinara sauce is ready for pasta salads or potlucks.

6-Final Step: Serve or Store Ladle hot over spaghetti or use as a base for [easy chicken parmesan](https://cookycooky.com/easy-chicken-parmesan/). Serves 6-8 generously for gatherings. Cool before storing if not serving immediately.