Tomato Pasta Sauce for Spaghetti, Lasagne & Chilli

Mary Berry’s tomato pasta sauce is a rich, comforting classic with gentle sweetness from slowly softened onions and a warm garlic kick. The deep tomato flavour is enhanced by tomato purée and a hint of herbs, making it a versatile base that’s perfect for spaghetti, lasagna, or even grilled chicken.

This pasta sauce scores a Nutri-score B thanks to its wholesome base of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil. It is organically balanced with minimal sugar and optional cream for richness. A great choice for a nutritious family meal.

Method

1. Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook gently for 5–6 minutes, stirring regularly, until soft and translucent. Take your time here — it builds the sauce’s base flavour.
2. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, keeping heat low to avoid any burning. The aroma should be fragrant, not bitter.
3. Build the sauce: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée. Add dried herbs or basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Stir everything together well.
4. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low. Leave uncovered and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavours will deepen beautifully.
5. Choose texture: For a smooth tomato pasta sauce, blend with a stick blender right in the pan. If you prefer it chunky and rustic, leave it as is.
6. Add cream (optional): Just before serving, stir in double cream gently and warm through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Ready to serve or store: Serve hot over pasta or use as a rich base for lasagna. Cool completely before freezing portion-wise for quick meals later.

• Slow cooking the onion is key — don’t rush it.
• Make a double batch and freeze for easy weeknight dinners.
• Add fresh basil at the end, after cooking, for brightest flavour.
• A splash of reserved pasta water helps sauce cling beautifully.

What can you serve with this

1. Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up the rich, flavoursome sauce.
2. Green salad: Adds a crisp, fresh counterpoint to the hearty pasta.
3. Grilled chicken: Adds protein and makes a complete meal, especially with creamy sauce.
4. Roasted vegetables: Complements the tomato sauce with extra texture and flavour.
5. Parmesan cheese: A classic finishing touch to amplify the dish’s Italian vibe.

FAQs for Mary Berry Pasta Sauce

• Can I make tomato pasta sauce in advance?
  Yes, the flavours deepen after a day, making it even better the next day.
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tinned?
  Yes, peel and blanch ripe plum tomatoes before using.
• Is this tomato pasta sauce vegan?
  Yes, simply omit cream or use a dairy-free substitute.
• Can I add meat to the sauce?
  Absolutely, brown minced beef, pork, or turkey first for a bolognese variation.
• How do I make the sauce thicker?
  Simmer uncovered longer or stir in extra tomato purée.
• Can I use this sauce for pizza?
  Yes, just simmer a bit more to reduce water content.
• How long does it keep refrigerated?
  Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
• What if the sauce tastes too sharp?
  Add a pinch of sugar or simmer a little longer.
• Can I freeze Mary Berry pasta sauce?
  Yes, freeze in flat bags for up to 3 months.
• When should I add fresh basil?
  Add after cooking to preserve fresh, vibrant flavour.

Nutri-score Health Check

Mary Berry’s tomato pasta sauce scores a Nutri-score B, indicating a balanced, nutritious choice with plenty of vegetables and limited additives.

Positive Factors

• Tomatoes, onion, and garlic provide fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Olive oil adds healthy fats without excess calories.

Negative Factors

• Double cream adds saturated fat but is optional.
• Salt and optional sugar can affect the score if overused.

The score is automatically calculated from the ingredients and is a guide only.