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Homemade Roasted Tomato Sauce Recipe with Fresh Basil and Garlic

homemade roasted tomato sauce - featured image

A flavorful homemade roasted tomato sauce featuring fresh basil and garlic, perfect for pasta, chicken dishes, or as a versatile kitchen staple. Roasting intensifies the natural sweetness and creates a rich, slightly smoky sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds fresh tomatoes (Roma or plum tomatoes recommended)
  • 68 fresh garlic cloves, peeled and left whole
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, washed and dried
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, if tomatoes are too acidic or not fully ripe)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash and dry the tomatoes. Cut each tomato in half lengthwise; quarter if very large. Arrange cut side up on the baking sheet.
  3. Scatter whole peeled garlic cloves around the tomatoes on the sheet.
  4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the tomatoes and garlic. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes evenly over the tomatoes and garlic.
  6. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized, and garlic is golden and tender.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
  8. Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add fresh basil leaves.
  9. Pulse blend until smooth but still slightly textured. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add honey or maple syrup if sauce is too acidic.
  10. Optional: Pour sauce into a saucepan and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.

Notes

Avoid over-roasting tomatoes to prevent bitterness. Roast garlic whole and unpeeled for a soft, buttery texture. Adjust seasoning gradually and taste often. If sauce is too thick, thin with water or broth. Sauce can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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