The Big Dipper Marinara Dipping Sauce

Elevate your snack game with "The Big Dipper Marinara Dipping Sauce," a rich and flavorful homemade sauce that’s perfect for pairing with breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or any crispy appetizer. Made with pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a fragrant blend of oregano, basil, and garlic, this marinara sauce is simmered to perfection in just 25 minutes. A hint of sugar balances the tangy tomatoes, while optional red pepper flakes add a touch of spice. This versatile dipping sauce is quick to prepare but delivers bold, comforting flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or craving an indulgent snack, this easy, crowd-pleasing marinara sauce will be your new go-to!

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 4

Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring until well combined.

Step 5

Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid slightly ajar, and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 7

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to balance the flavors to your preference.

Step 8

If desired, garnish the sauce with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Step 9

Transfer the marinara to a small serving dish for dipping and enjoy warm. Pair with breadsticks, fried appetizers, or any snack of your choice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(988.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	526.8

Total Fat 30.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1274.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 61.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.3g	0%
Total Sugars 36.1g
Protein 10.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 213.8mg	0%
Iron 7.3mg	0%
Potassium 2228.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.6%

Protein: 7.3%

Carbs: 44.1%