Imagine a marinara sauce so rich, so deeply flavored, that it transforms your ordinary pasta night into a gourmet experience. This Crockpot Brown Butter Marinara Sauce is not just another tomato sauce – it's a culinary game-changer that will have your family and friends begging for your secret recipe. By taking the classic marinara to new heights with the nutty, complex flavor of brown butter, you'll create a sauce that's simultaneously comforting and sophisticated.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup butter
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden amber color and develops a nutty aroma. This process typically takes 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter.
- Add chopped onions to the browned butter and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onion and butter mixture, cooking for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the browned butter, onion, and garlic mixture to the crockpot.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes into the crockpot, stirring to combine with the butter mixture.
- Add brown sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
- Stir the sauce occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed before serving.
- Serve hot over pasta, use as a pizza sauce, or store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Brown Butter Mastery: Watch your butter carefully during browning. The line between perfectly golden and burnt is thin. Look for a golden amber color and a nutty aroma.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: The crockpot allows flavors to develop slowly, so resist the urge to rush the cooking process.
- Stirring Matters: Occasional stirring prevents ingredient sticking and ensures even flavor distribution.
- Flavor Customization: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of red wine for extra depth.
- Storage Hack: This sauce freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers for quick future meals.
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor base.
- Final Touch: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving can elevate the sauce even further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
