Nothing enhances a plate of pasta or a perfectly baked pizza like a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. And while there are countless variations and methods to prepare this essential condiment, there’s something special about oven-roasted tomato sauce. Roasting the tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars, deepening the flavor and creating a sauce that is simply irresistible. Here’s how you can make the best oven-roasted tomato sauce at home.

Ingredients:

– 4 pounds ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum tomatoes work great)

– 6 cloves garlic, peeled

– 2 small onions, quartered

– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

– A handful of fresh basil leaves

– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Instructions:

1.Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

2.Wash and cut the tomatoes into halves. If they are particularly large, you may want to quarter them.

3.Spread the tomatoes, garlic cloves, and onion quarters on a large baking tray. Ensure they are in a single layer for even roasting.

4.Drizzle the vegetables generously with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and sugar if desired—this little pinch can help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

5.Tuck the basil leaves and thyme sprigs among the tomatoes.

6.Place the tray into the preheated oven and roast for about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll know it’s done when the edges of the tomatoes are slightly charred, and they’ve released their gorgeous juices.

7.Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly, enough to handle.

8.Take out the basil leaves and thyme stems; they’ve done their job infusing flavor.

9.Transfer everything else into a blender or food processor. Blend until you reach your desired sauce consistency; some people prefer it smooth, while others like it chunky.

10.Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

11.Your roasted tomato sauce can be used immediately over your favorite dishes or stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to a week—or frozen for up to three months for later use.

Enjoy this homemade roasted tomato sauce with its deep flavor that transcends ordinary sauces. Whether served atop freshly-cooked pasta or as a dip on its own, this sauce is sure to win over hearts at any dining table.