Mary Berry Tomato Sauce

This Mary Berry Tomato Sauce is a simple, classic recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Using ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this sauce is beautifully balanced—perfect for pasta, lasagna, meatballs, or even as a pizza base. It’s an essential recipe every home cook should have, following Mary Berry’s philosophy of combining simple ingredients for maximum flavor.

What Is Mary Berry Tomato Sauce?

Mary Berry’s tomato sauce is a basic homemade tomato sauce made with fresh or canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs. It’s gently simmered to develop a thick, rich consistency without being heavy. Ideal for a variety of dishes, this versatile sauce can be made in advance and stored for quick meals.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – No additives or preservatives
• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes
• Versatile Base Sauce – Perfect for many dishes
• Family-Friendly – Mild yet flavorful for all ages
• Freezer-Friendly – Ideal for batch cooking

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Tomato Sauce

• Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Canned Chopped Tomatoes (400g / 14 oz can) or Fresh Tomatoes (500g, chopped)
• Tomato Purée (1 tbsp)
• Sugar (1 tsp, optional)
• Fresh Basil Leaves (a handful, torn)
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
• Optional: A pinch of dried oregano or thyme

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Blender (optional, for smooth sauce)
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the onion and garlic

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Add the tomatoes

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Season and simmer

Season with salt, pepper, and a small pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Add dried herbs if using. Bring to a simmer and cook gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 4: Add fresh basil

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh basil leaves and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Blend if desired

For a smoother sauce, blend with a hand blender until silky, or leave chunky for a rustic texture.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Tomato Sauce

• Spaghetti or Penne Pasta – Classic pairing
• Meatballs – Serve over or simmer in the sauce
• Lasagna – Use as a rich layer
• Pizza Base – Spread thinly over the dough
• Chicken or Fish – Light, flavorful topping

Expert Tips for the Best Tomato Sauce

• Use Ripe Tomatoes – If using fresh, they should be juicy and ripe
• Cook Slowly – Simmer gently to allow flavors to develop
• Don’t Skip the Sugar – Just a pinch balances the acidity perfectly
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End – To preserve their bright flavor
• Use Good Olive Oil – It really enhances the overall taste

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Tomato Sauce

• Spicy Tomato Sauce – Add a pinch of chili flakes
• Creamy Tomato Sauce – Stir in a splash of double cream at the end
• Roasted Tomato Sauce – Roast tomatoes and garlic before blending
• Vegetable Tomato Sauce – Add finely chopped carrots, celery, or peppers
• Herb-Heavy Sauce – Mix basil with parsley, oregano, or thyme

Best Practices to Store Leftovers

• Cool Before Storing – Helps prevent condensation
• Refrigerate in Airtight Container – Use within 3–4 days
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Lasts up to 3 months
• Label Containers – Helps track freshness
• Reheat Gently – On the stovetop over low heat

Nutrition Value (per serving, about ¼ cup)

• Calories: ~70
• Protein: ~1g
• Fat: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~6g
• Fiber: ~1g

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes for tomato sauce?

Yes. If using fresh tomatoes, choose ripe and juicy varieties, blanch them to remove skins if preferred, and chop before cooking.

How can I make tomato sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce uncovered over low heat, stirring occasionally, to allow excess water to evaporate and naturally thicken the sauce.

Can I freeze homemade tomato sauce?

Absolutely. Let the sauce cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What herbs go best in a basic tomato sauce?

Basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley are classic additions that complement the tomatoes beautifully.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Tomato Sauce is a brilliant basic recipe that you’ll find yourself using again and again. Simple, fresh, and flavorful, it transforms everyday meals into something special. Keep a batch handy in your fridge or freezer for quick and delicious meals anytime!

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry French Apple Tart
• Mary Berry Beef Florentine
• Mary Berry Fried Rice
• River Cottage Rhubarb and Ginger Jam
• Mary Berry Chocolate Truffles

Print