Homemade Pomodoro Sauce (Just Like Italian Nonnas Make!)

Wondering what pomodoro sauce is and how to make it? It’s a simple, flavorful tomato sauce made with just a few fresh ingredients. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make authentic pomodoro sauce that tastes just like it came from a cozy Italian kitchen.

What Is Pomodoro Sauce?

“Pomodoro” means tomato in Italian, and pomodoro sauce is one of the simplest and most beloved Italian tomato sauces. It’s made with minimal ingredients—just tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil.

How is Pomodoro sauce different from marinara?
While both are tomato-based, pomodoro sauce is smoother, thicker, and typically simmered longer. Marinara, on the other hand, has a chunkier texture and is often made with onions and herbs like oregano.

Why do Italians call a tomato “pomodoro”?
“Pomodoro” comes from the Italian words “pomo d’oro,” meaning “golden apple,” because the first tomatoes brought to Europe were yellow!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a look at the classic ingredients in a traditional pomodoro sauce:

• Fresh ripe tomatoes (or canned San Marzano tomatoes)
• Olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
• Garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt, to taste

Optional add-ins:

• Onion (for depth)
• Crushed red pepper (for heat)
• Parmesan cheese (for richness)

Don’t have fresh tomatoes? No problem—high-quality canned tomatoes work just fine, especially San Marzano varieties.

How to Make Pomodoro Sauce (Step-by-Step)

1. Blanch & Peel Tomatoes (if fresh):
   • Cut an X on the bottom of each tomato.
   • Boil for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath.
   • Peel the skins off easily.
2. Sauté Garlic:
   • Heat olive oil in a large saucepan.
   • Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add Tomatoes:
   • Crush the peeled tomatoes by hand or use a blender for a smoother texture.
   • Add to the saucepan and stir.
4. Simmer:
   • Cook uncovered on low for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add salt and fresh basil in the final 5 minutes.
5. Blend (Optional):
   • For a super-smooth finish, blend with an immersion blender.

Why might your pomodoro sauce look orange?
This usually happens if it’s blended with a lot of air or over-whipped. It’s still delicious!

Pomodoro Sauce vs Marinara (And Other Sauces)

Pomodoro vs Marinara:

• Pomodoro is smoother and often thicker.
• Marinara is chunkier, cooks more quickly, and contains more herbs.

Pomodoro vs Bolognese:

• Bolognese includes ground meat and is a heavier, meat-based sauce.

Pomodoro vs Arrabiata:

• Arrabiata is spicy! It contains chili flakes or hot peppers, unlike mellow pomodoro.

Is tomato puree the same as tomato sauce?
Not quite. Tomato puree is thicker and unseasoned; tomato sauce is cooked and seasoned.

Serving Suggestions

Pomodoro sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Over spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni
• As a base for pizza sauce
• Mixed with zoodles or spiralized veggies for a low-carb option
• Topped with parmesan, mozzarella, or fresh herbs

Can I use pomodoro sauce on pizza? Absolutely! Just simmer for a little longer to achieve a thicker consistency.

Pro Tips From Our Kitchen

• Use San Marzano tomatoes for the best canned tomato flavor
• Always add basil at the end to keep its fresh taste
• Want a richer sauce? Add a spoonful of butter at the end
• Taste as you go! Salt can make or break your sauce

How to fix watery pomodoro sauce:
Simmer uncovered for longer or add a small spoonful of tomato paste.

Is Pomodoro Sauce Healthy?

Pomodoro sauce is naturally:

• Low in fat
• Vegan
• Gluten-free
• Full of antioxidants from tomatoes and garlic

Can I make it keto-friendly?
Yes! Just make sure there’s no added sugar in your tomatoes.

Variations You’ll Love

• Spicy Pomodoro: Add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili
• Creamy Pomodoro: Stir in a splash of heavy cream
• Roasted Garlic Pomodoro: Roast the garlic first for a deeper flavor
• Pomodoro Sauce: A thicker, slow-cooked cousin of pomodoro

How To Store & Reheat It (Without Losing Flavor)

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months
• Reheat: On the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals

Can you make pomodoro sauce?
Yes, but follow safe canning procedures carefully!

FAQs: What People Are Asking

What is pomodoro sauce made of?
Tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil—that’s it!

What’s the difference between pomodoro and marinara?
Pomodoro is smoother and more slowly cooked; marinara is chunkier and quicker.

What’s a good substitute for pomodoro sauce?
Marinara or a basic tomato basil sauce will do in a pinch.

How do I make pomodoro sauce for pizza?
Simmer it longer until thick, then spread it over your dough before baking.

More Pasta Sauce Recipes to Try

• Classic Marinara
• Spicy Arrabiata
• Alfredo Sauce
• Tomato Basil Sauce

Reader Favorites This Month

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
• Fresh Basil Pesto
• Homemade Lasagna
• One-Pot Spaghetti

Final Thoughts

Pomodoro sauce is one of those magic recipes: simple ingredients, rich flavor, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on pizza, or spooning it over grilled veggies, this sauce brings a little bit of Italy into your kitchen.

Let us know how yours turns out in the comments, and don’t forget to rate the recipe!

Buon appetito!