If you make this crock pot marinara, I’m almost positive that you’ll never buy a jar of sauce ever again, if you have a choice in the matter. It’s free of any added sugars or oils, which makes it extremely calorie and weight watchers friendly.
It’s huge on flavor! Nothing against anyone who uses a jar of sauce, I used jarred sauces of all different varieties for years and years. I never even thought making homemade sauce was a thing that normal people did until I did a Whole 30 Challenge two years ago.
Now jarred sauces are a thing of the past in this house. I made this into a bulk freezer recipe because like most people, I don’t have time to make a fresh pot of sauce every single time I need some.
I simply measure out about two cups into quart freezer bags, squeeze out as much air as possible, lay them flat, and stack them in the freezer. This recipe makes about 5 freezer bags with 2 cups of sauce in each bag.
crockpot marinara 0 smart points
If you like your sauce chunky, leave it the way it is when it comes out of the crockpot.
However, I like it to be more smooth, so it goes a little farther and is a little more versatile. So I either run it through a blender, or use the immersion blender when it’s fairly cool.
I use this in almost all recipes that require a sauce, and also for pizzas! Since it’s really just tomatoes and spices, It’s ZERO smart points for as much as you want!
ENJOY!
Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 3- 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes
- 2- 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
- 5 garlic cloves minced (or about 3 tbs already minced garlic)
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 tbs oregano, dried
- 2 tbs basil, dried I also use fresh when I have some from the garden)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes more or less depending on the level of spice you'd like
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
Mix all of your ingredients in a 6 quart slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours to really get all of those lovely flavors to mingle and fall in love with each other. Let cool completely before adding to freezer bags.
Optional: For smoother sauce, use an immersion hand blender, or put in a blender. Blend until desired consistency .
*If using a blender make sure the sauce is cool or blend in small batches*
Recipe Notes
0 Freestyle Smart Points for any amount (calculated with Weight Watchers Recipe Builder)
0 Smart Points for any amount! (Calculated with Weight Watchers recipe builder)
0 Points Plus for any amount (calculated with My Score Plus)
60 calories per 1/2 cup of sauce (Calculated with My Fitness Pal)
Marieke says
06/07/2019 at 11:39 amHi i have to convert the oz to grams, but it seems to me i’m getting it wrong. Because when i convert it to grams the amount is just so small. I think i can make just a little bit of marinara sauce. So is it really 3 oz crushed tomatoes?
Shelia Porter says
05/21/2019 at 9:19 amI can my own tomatoes and they have more juice than store bought tomatoes. Should I drain off some of the juice?
Star says
05/28/2019 at 7:33 pmHey Shelia, I would definitely drain off a bit of the juice. You could do it before or after cooking really.
Nancy Anderson says
05/09/2019 at 2:08 pmCan I add 99% ground lean turkey and cook entire time in crock pot and freeze and then just cook pasta noodles and top to make spaghetti and still have it be 0 points?
Star says
05/10/2019 at 4:41 pmYep!
CJ says
04/11/2019 at 7:03 pmHello,
I just had a few questions. Is there a certain type of crushed tomatoes you are supposed to get? For some reason my WW app says that the crushed tomatoes are 29 points.
Star says
04/12/2019 at 7:05 pmHey CJ! That sounds like a glitch of some sort. As long as the tomatoes ingredients are just tomatoes and maybe salt. Then it’s zero points. Hope that helps!
Deborah says
04/19/2019 at 11:13 pmCJ, I had the same issue and then I realized that not all crushed tomatoes are created the same since some have oil and sugar added. Keep checking and you will find a brand that is zero points. I bought Walmart’s no name brand. Good luck, Deborah
Sharon says
04/06/2019 at 1:43 amThis sauce is quite versatile! To cut some of the sourness/acidity of the sauce, I add carrots. I drag out my food processor to make quick work of the onions (and other weekly meal prep) so pulverizing 2-3 carrots is no big deal. Pre-WW, I would add a little sugar to tone down the harshness of marinara but carrots work almost as well. I also add a crushed up chicken bouillon cube or two if the flavor is a little flat or tin can-y. It really bumps the flavor and adds salt. Thank you for this recipe.
Star says
04/06/2019 at 2:18 amI love the idea of adding crushed up bouillon cubes! I always have a jar of “better than bouillon” in my fridge. I’ll definitely stir some in next batch. Thanks for that tip, Sharon! So happy you enjoy it!
Natalie Clark says
03/10/2019 at 6:56 pmCan you do this in the crock pot but on high?
Star says
03/10/2019 at 8:29 pmYep that’ll be fine about 4-5 hours should do it
Whitney says
02/10/2019 at 8:29 pmHi Star,
Sorry I tried to look at all of the comments and questions before asking this so you didn’t have to repeat yourself. But can you cook it in the instant pot and if so what are your recommendations for time? Thank you I’m excited to try this recipe!
Star says
02/20/2019 at 4:05 pmHey Whitney! I just recently tried this in the instant pot and yes you can. It’s ten minutes on high pressure with a quick release, but that being said, it is not as good as the slow cooker method. I’m testing this out again soon for an Instant Pot method and will be adjusting some seasonings, but it just might be one of those things that doesn’t work as well with pressure cooking, not sure!
Elissa says
12/18/2018 at 5:10 pmI made this but it came out kind of sour and bitter…no sweetness to it. Any suggestions?
(I used Trader Joe’s canned tomatoes)
Thank you!
Star says
12/18/2018 at 9:26 pmIt’s possible it was the tomatoes I’ve gotten that feedback only a couple of times over the years and unfortunately don’t have an answer as to what happened since it’s never happened to my batches and it’s only happened to a few. The one thing I can say is that when using Aldi brand tomatoes I didn’t like it as much and I know Trader Joes and Aldi are owned by the same company so maybe that could have something to do with it.
Elissa says
12/18/2018 at 9:51 pmThank you so much for responding! (I feel like I was acknowledged by a celebrity! 😀 )
What is your favorite brand of tomatoes to use?
Judi says
11/26/2018 at 2:04 pmI do not have a slow cooker. Can this be made stove top? How long would I cook it and what level heat on electric stove?
Star says
11/29/2018 at 3:11 pmHi Judi! I would cook it on the stove top on low heat covered for about an hour and a half. That should be long enough for the flavors to really develop.
Heather says
10/14/2018 at 5:23 pmI love this sauce. And so does everyone that has try it. Thanks for the recipe. Please come out with some more.
Natalie says
05/05/2019 at 2:08 pmWhat brand of tomatoes do you use?
Star says
05/07/2019 at 4:56 pmWhen I started making this sauce I used whatever canned tomatoes I grabbed at the store, but over the years I’ve gravitated towards using higher quality canned tomatoes like the Cento brand (yellow can) they have whole peeled tomatoes and crushed tomatoes and I normally do either of those. If using the whole peeled tomatoes you’ll definitely need to blend the sauce once it has cooked or smash the tomatoes really well. The taste of the sauce really gets even better when using something high quality. The only brand I’ve really had a “problem” with is the Happy Harvest brand. I use it for other things, but for the sauce it seems to get a bit more watery.
Ashli says
10/02/2018 at 6:50 pmDo you happen to know the 21 day fix container breakdown for this sauce?
Star says
10/18/2018 at 4:54 pmsorry, I have no idea
Kelsey says
04/10/2019 at 1:26 pmtomato sauce is purple!
Shawna says
09/12/2018 at 5:18 pmHow long do you think this keeps in the fridge? Thanks…it’s delicious by the way!
Star says
09/22/2018 at 9:47 pmI usually keep it in the fridge for up to 7 days, but I know people who keep it in there for 2-3 weeks.
Leah White says
07/18/2018 at 10:14 pmThe sauce was delicious but, it came out really watery. Should I have drained the tomatoes?
Star says
10/18/2018 at 5:00 pmIt could just be the tomatoes used. They might have contained a lot of water. You can blend it with the immersion blender and that should help
Jill says
07/09/2018 at 12:06 amCould I substitute fresh tomatoes in this recipe?
Star says
07/10/2018 at 4:02 pmYep!
Alex says
03/09/2019 at 1:45 pmCan I cook it on high in a slow cooker? If so, for how long?
Star says
03/09/2019 at 3:53 pmIt’ll be fine. I’d do about 3-4 hours
Stephanie Mann says
07/07/2018 at 6:20 pmThis is incredible I’m picky about sauces and this stands up to my pickiness..
David Holmquist says
06/27/2018 at 12:06 amThis is the best pasta sauce I have ever tasted, and so easy! I have been looking for a great homemade sauce recipe, and this is it. I followed the directions exactly, and it blew my family away! I can also see adjusting the spices to change the flavor, i.e., some brown sugar for a sweeter sauce, no red peppers for a milder sauce, green peppers for added vegetables, etc. I think the key is the crock pot! I didn’t freeze any of this first batch since we ate it up! Thank you! 5 stars!!!!
Kate S says
04/14/2018 at 4:42 pmThis is way better then any store bought stuff and for 0 points!!! Making another batch today
Kate S says
04/14/2018 at 4:42 pmThis is way better then any store bought stuff and for 0 points!!! Making another batch today
Allison Gehringer says
04/04/2018 at 9:12 pmI made this over the weekend of crazy prepping and I love it! I have five quart freezer jars full stocked up! We already used one for pasta last night and my husband had two helpings! Thank you for your delicious and easy-to-follow recipes!
Allison Gehringer says
04/04/2018 at 9:12 pmI made this over the weekend of crazy prepping and I love it! I have five quart freezer jars full stocked up! We already used one for pasta last night and my husband had two helpings! Thank you for your delicious and easy-to-follow recipes!
Heather Vazquez says
03/30/2018 at 4:10 pmCan you please clarify the measurement abbreviations? Is tbs Teaspoons or Tablespoons? Typically Tablespoon is Tbsp. and teaspoon is tsp. But you have tsp listed for some of the ingredients like the garlic and red pepper flakes and tbs for the basil and oregano, I assumed it was a typo and means Tablespoon however 2 Tablespoons of oregano and basil seems like a LOT!
Star says
04/02/2018 at 7:36 amI never realized I didn’t type it out clearly. No one has ever said anything, whoops!
I think I always write tbs. I’ve never thought about it. haha
It’s tablespoon for everything except for salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Garlic is actually 5 cloves (freshly minced) or 3 tablespoons already minced (like jar stuff from produce section)
two tablespoons is a lot for the oregano and basil, but it’s correct. You make a bunch’a sauce and it’s packed full of flavor. I hope ya enjoy & sorry bout the confusion!
Heather Vazquez says
03/30/2018 at 4:10 pmCan you please clarify the measurement abbreviations? Is tbs Teaspoons or Tablespoons? Typically Tablespoon is Tbsp. and teaspoon is tsp. But you have tsp listed for some of the ingredients like the garlic and red pepper flakes and tbs for the basil and oregano, I assumed it was a typo and means Tablespoon however 2 Tablespoons of oregano and basil seems like a LOT!
Star says
04/02/2018 at 7:36 amI never realized I didn’t type it out clearly. No one has ever said anything, whoops!
I think I always write tbs. I’ve never thought about it. haha
It’s tablespoon for everything except for salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Garlic is actually 5 cloves (freshly minced) or 3 tablespoons already minced (like jar stuff from produce section)
two tablespoons is a lot for the oregano and basil, but it’s correct. You make a bunch’a sauce and it’s packed full of flavor. I hope ya enjoy & sorry bout the confusion!
Soula Twiddy says
03/26/2018 at 5:44 pmI’m not a big fan of chunky tomatoes and I don’t have a blender, could I use tomato sauce instead and would I use 5 cans or does that need to be modified?
Star says
03/27/2018 at 7:11 amIt should be fine! I would use some crushed tomatoes (not chunky) as well because the tomato sauce alone might be REALLY smooth almost liquid-y?
Soula Twiddy says
03/26/2018 at 5:44 pmI’m not a big fan of chunky tomatoes and I don’t have a blender, could I use tomato sauce instead and would I use 5 cans or does that need to be modified?
Star says
03/27/2018 at 7:11 amIt should be fine! I would use some crushed tomatoes (not chunky) as well because the tomato sauce alone might be REALLY smooth almost liquid-y?
Kim Phillips says
03/24/2018 at 1:05 pmI bought red gold crushed tomatoes and they scanned at 1 point per serving and using 3 cans would be way too many points. What brand tomatoes do you use?
Star says
03/24/2018 at 1:46 pmThey are scanning most likely because there is natural sugars in them. If there isn’t sugar in the ingredients and it says just tomatoes, salt, spices even then it’s fine and they are actually zero points
Kim Phillips says
03/24/2018 at 1:05 pmI bought red gold crushed tomatoes and they scanned at 1 point per serving and using 3 cans would be way too many points. What brand tomatoes do you use?
Star says
03/24/2018 at 1:46 pmThey are scanning most likely because there is natural sugars in them. If there isn’t sugar in the ingredients and it says just tomatoes, salt, spices even then it’s fine and they are actually zero points
Mary Jones says
03/20/2018 at 7:35 amStar,
I made this Crockpot Marinara Sauce and loved it. I thought if it was that good why not make a Crockpot Enchilada Sauce. To make it I used the following:
1 large onion chopped
3 – 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
3 – 10.5oz. Rotel diced tomatoes with habaneros (for milder/less spicy use the one w/green chilies.)
1/2 cup Ortega Taco Seasoning Mix 40% Less Sodium (or your favorite Taco Seasoning Mix).
I put all of it in the crockpot and cooked on low for 8 hours then let it cool before bagging for the freezer for future use.
I tried figuring out the Smartpoints but math isn’t my strong point. Seasoning Mix is 2 tsp. per serving. I used 1/2 Cup seasoning mix divided by 2 tsp. There are 24 tsp in a 1/2 Cup. I’m thinking it’s 1-1.25Smartpoints per cup with 10 cups of sauce. I’ll need someone to figure it out for sure.
I’ll use it to simmer in Canned Chicken, Ground Beef and Ground Turkey in for more flavor for Tacos. Another could be a base for Chicken Tortilla or Taco Soups. Also as a topping/Ranchero type sauce for Beef Enchiladas.
Star says
03/20/2018 at 7:58 amWhat a kick butt idea, Mary!! It sounds delish! It’s probably something along the lines of 1 sp per cup
Mary Jones says
03/28/2018 at 9:32 amThat’s what I calculated too. I’m using it this weekend for en Enchilada Sauce.
Mary Jones says
03/20/2018 at 7:35 amStar,
I made this Crockpot Marinara Sauce and loved it. I thought if it was that good why not make a Crockpot Enchilada Sauce. To make it I used the following:
1 large onion chopped
3 – 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
3 – 10.5oz. Rotel diced tomatoes with habaneros (for milder/less spicy use the one w/green chilies.)
1/2 cup Ortega Taco Seasoning Mix 40% Less Sodium (or your favorite Taco Seasoning Mix).
I put all of it in the crockpot and cooked on low for 8 hours then let it cool before bagging for the freezer for future use.
I tried figuring out the Smartpoints but math isn’t my strong point. Seasoning Mix is 2 tsp. per serving. I used 1/2 Cup seasoning mix divided by 2 tsp. There are 24 tsp in a 1/2 Cup. I’m thinking it’s 1-1.25Smartpoints per cup with 10 cups of sauce. I’ll need someone to figure it out for sure.
I’ll use it to simmer in Canned Chicken, Ground Beef and Ground Turkey in for more flavor for Tacos. Another could be a base for Chicken Tortilla or Taco Soups. Also as a topping/Ranchero type sauce for Beef Enchiladas.
Star says
03/20/2018 at 7:58 amWhat a kick butt idea, Mary!! It sounds delish! It’s probably something along the lines of 1 sp per cup
Mary Jones says
03/28/2018 at 9:32 amThat’s what I calculated too. I’m using it this weekend for en Enchilada Sauce.
Saszyspice says
02/26/2018 at 10:56 amThis is an easy and amazing recipe! You’re right, it is sooooooo flavourful & perfect for weight watchers. The house smells so amazing when it is cooking too. I will definitely be making this again. Loved it!
Saszyspice says
02/26/2018 at 10:56 amThis is an easy and amazing recipe! You’re right, it is sooooooo flavourful & perfect for weight watchers. The house smells so amazing when it is cooking too. I will definitely be making this again. Loved it!
Caroline says
02/18/2018 at 10:35 amLove this recipe! I do freeze it and pull it down to the fridge as needed. Just wondering, do you happen to know how long it’s good in the fridge for? Thanks!
Caroline says
02/18/2018 at 10:35 amLove this recipe! I do freeze it and pull it down to the fridge as needed. Just wondering, do you happen to know how long it’s good in the fridge for? Thanks!
Paige says
02/15/2018 at 1:47 pmHi! So excited to try this recipe, and I’m curious how many freezer bags you divide it into? Just so I know how to portion it all out! 🙂 Thank you!!
Star says
02/20/2018 at 3:50 pmUsually 5 Freezer bags. I hope you enjoy!
Paige says
02/15/2018 at 1:47 pmHi! So excited to try this recipe, and I’m curious how many freezer bags you divide it into? Just so I know how to portion it all out! 🙂 Thank you!!
Star says
02/20/2018 at 3:50 pmUsually 5 Freezer bags. I hope you enjoy!
Carmen says
02/08/2018 at 3:45 pmabout how many 1/2 servings do you get from this recipe?
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:40 pmIt makes about 10 cups total
Carmen says
02/08/2018 at 3:45 pmabout how many 1/2 servings do you get from this recipe?
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:40 pmIt makes about 10 cups total
Allison says
02/01/2018 at 6:16 pmHello! Is the only way to store this sauce in the freezer? How long is it good before freezing it?
Star says
02/02/2018 at 9:46 pmup to 7 days in the fridge. You could can it, but I don’t have that how-to available right now.
Allison says
02/01/2018 at 6:16 pmHello! Is the only way to store this sauce in the freezer? How long is it good before freezing it?
Star says
02/02/2018 at 9:46 pmup to 7 days in the fridge. You could can it, but I don’t have that how-to available right now.
Angie Janicek says
02/01/2018 at 5:37 pmI’m sorry if I’ve missed this somewhere. I want to put this in My Fitness Pal but don’t see how many servings it makes. I tried 12 but it was saying 90 calories a serving. Would it be more like 18? BTW, I love this recipe and so do my kiddos!!!
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:41 pmIt makes about 10 cups total. I’m so happy you enjoy!
Angie Janicek says
02/01/2018 at 5:37 pmI’m sorry if I’ve missed this somewhere. I want to put this in My Fitness Pal but don’t see how many servings it makes. I tried 12 but it was saying 90 calories a serving. Would it be more like 18? BTW, I love this recipe and so do my kiddos!!!
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:41 pmIt makes about 10 cups total. I’m so happy you enjoy!
Kim says
01/30/2018 at 12:02 pmI made this yesterday and it’s fabulous! Next time, I will tone down the red pepper flakes and possibly the oregano for my family’s taste. My boyfriend and my eldest son loved it, my middle son thought it was too spicy and my youngest son, who only will eat Ragu, wouldn’t even try it…ha! I did add a little Truvia (maybe 1 packet) just to cut a bit of the acidity and it was fine, still tasted amazing! I just know I’ll be making this over and over and I’m so happy that now I can “afford” to actually eat pasta too. I also used it for lunch today to make english muffin pizzas and they were so good with this sauce! I wish I found this earlier in my life!
Kim says
01/30/2018 at 12:02 pmI made this yesterday and it’s fabulous! Next time, I will tone down the red pepper flakes and possibly the oregano for my family’s taste. My boyfriend and my eldest son loved it, my middle son thought it was too spicy and my youngest son, who only will eat Ragu, wouldn’t even try it…ha! I did add a little Truvia (maybe 1 packet) just to cut a bit of the acidity and it was fine, still tasted amazing! I just know I’ll be making this over and over and I’m so happy that now I can “afford” to actually eat pasta too. I also used it for lunch today to make english muffin pizzas and they were so good with this sauce! I wish I found this earlier in my life!
Kris Fosgate says
01/29/2018 at 7:54 pmMy sauce turned out too thin. Not sure why. I cooked it 9 hours in crockpot.
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:56 pmDid you blend it together? Unfortunately, sometimes, it can really boil down to that the tomatoes themselves that were canned were filled with water.
Kris Fosgate says
01/29/2018 at 7:54 pmMy sauce turned out too thin. Not sure why. I cooked it 9 hours in crockpot.
Star says
02/08/2018 at 9:56 pmDid you blend it together? Unfortunately, sometimes, it can really boil down to that the tomatoes themselves that were canned were filled with water.
Lindsey says
01/22/2018 at 6:31 pmDo you have suggested recipes to use this marinara with? Thanks!
Star says
01/24/2018 at 5:24 pmI love using it for a lot of things- A few of my favorites here: Meatball Sub Bubble Up, Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, Pepperoni Pizza Sandwiches, and Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Bake!
Lindsey says
01/22/2018 at 6:31 pmDo you have suggested recipes to use this marinara with? Thanks!
Star says
01/24/2018 at 5:24 pmI love using it for a lot of things- A few of my favorites here: Meatball Sub Bubble Up, Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, Pepperoni Pizza Sandwiches, and Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Bake!
Stephanie J says
01/19/2018 at 12:37 pmTbs? Tablespoons or teaspoons?
Star says
01/21/2018 at 9:12 amtablespoon
Stephanie J says
01/19/2018 at 12:37 pmTbs? Tablespoons or teaspoons?
Star says
01/21/2018 at 9:12 amtablespoon
Stephanie says
01/19/2018 at 12:36 pmTbs? Tablespoons or teaspoons?
Stephanie says
01/19/2018 at 12:36 pmTbs? Tablespoons or teaspoons?
Laura says
01/14/2018 at 5:34 pmDo you have an optional recipe for Instantpot?
Star says
01/14/2018 at 6:23 pmI don’t have an Instant Pot, but I’ve seen people use theirs with this recipe. I’m not sure of the temp/setting, but they said it took only one hour in it. Hope that helps a bit!
Laura says
01/14/2018 at 5:34 pmDo you have an optional recipe for Instantpot?
Star says
01/14/2018 at 6:23 pmI don’t have an Instant Pot, but I’ve seen people use theirs with this recipe. I’m not sure of the temp/setting, but they said it took only one hour in it. Hope that helps a bit!
Rebecca says
01/12/2018 at 8:05 pmThank you so much for this 0 points recipe! I canned it and it made about 5 pints if anyone needs the info.
Rebecca says
01/12/2018 at 8:05 pmThank you so much for this 0 points recipe! I canned it and it made about 5 pints if anyone needs the info.
Sarah says
01/12/2019 at 8:59 pmDid you follow the recipe as is, then can it? I am interested in canning instead of freezing…
JF says
01/11/2018 at 3:23 pmHow long will this last in the freezer?
Star says
01/14/2018 at 3:03 pmI’d safely say 3 months!
JF says
01/11/2018 at 3:23 pmHow long will this last in the freezer?
Star says
01/14/2018 at 3:03 pmI’d safely say 3 months!
Misti says
01/10/2018 at 3:46 pmI made this a couple of months ago & really liked the ease of it and being able to have it on hand. Mine still tasted kind of acidic even after cooking for eight hours. Do you have any tips on how to remedy that? Thanks!
Misti says
01/10/2018 at 3:46 pmI made this a couple of months ago & really liked the ease of it and being able to have it on hand. Mine still tasted kind of acidic even after cooking for eight hours. Do you have any tips on how to remedy that? Thanks!
Sarah says
09/10/2017 at 7:08 pmHave you ever used fresh tomatoes in this sauce? I have a ton I need to pick and would love to use them in a few different ways!
Star says
09/14/2017 at 10:06 amI finally have now! It works perfectly! Just dice the tomatoes up. I honestly didn’t measure so I can’t tell you for sure how many cups I used. I’d have to say probably about 5 cups of diced fresh tomatoes.
Sarah says
09/10/2017 at 7:08 pmHave you ever used fresh tomatoes in this sauce? I have a ton I need to pick and would love to use them in a few different ways!
Star says
09/14/2017 at 10:06 amI finally have now! It works perfectly! Just dice the tomatoes up. I honestly didn’t measure so I can’t tell you for sure how many cups I used. I’d have to say probably about 5 cups of diced fresh tomatoes.
Beth Waller says
08/22/2017 at 12:28 pmWe love this sauce, I’m in the UK, so use plum tomatoes and chopped. I’m attempting this in my electric pressure cooker right now, so will update you on how it comes out 🙂
Star says
08/22/2017 at 9:41 pmSo happy you enjoy it! Let me know how it goes! =)
Beth Waller says
09/01/2017 at 7:08 amReally good! I’ll have to make some more, almost used this batch already!
Star says
09/01/2017 at 10:55 amGood to hear you enjoy it! Thank you!
Beth Waller says
08/22/2017 at 12:28 pmWe love this sauce, I’m in the UK, so use plum tomatoes and chopped. I’m attempting this in my electric pressure cooker right now, so will update you on how it comes out 🙂
Star says
08/22/2017 at 9:41 pmSo happy you enjoy it! Let me know how it goes! =)
Beth Waller says
09/01/2017 at 7:08 amReally good! I’ll have to make some more, almost used this batch already!
Star says
09/01/2017 at 10:55 amGood to hear you enjoy it! Thank you!
Suzanne B says
08/21/2017 at 3:29 pmHi Star,
Not sure if you would even know the answer (or if another poster has already asked), but since it’s summer & I have SO MANY fresh tomatoes, if I wanted to use fresh vs. canned, would I simply just swap using the same weight/amount?
Thanks!
Star says
08/22/2017 at 11:53 amI have yet to try using fresh tomatoes. This is the first year I will have an abundance of garden tomatoes to test it out with! I was in the school of thought that you needed to take the skin off tomatoes and de-seed them. So I was personally always turned off by having to do all of that. Ha ha! But after a little research I have found that a lot of people just dice them up and throw them in a pot to make homemade sauce without worrying about the skins and such. I am excited to try for myself soon! I would say about 6-7 cups of diced tomatoes would be about the same. I will test it out soon myself and I’ll update the post with what I find out.
Donna Kubesh says
02/01/2019 at 6:29 pmI’m just now scrolling through this post, so you may already know this. I have made a marinara for years that I can. I use tomato purée that I make – clean tomatoes, core and cut any spots off. And then put in the blender and all the seeds and skins get puréed. No one has ever been able to identify that the seeds and skins went in with it. Oh, I also “squeeze” some of the juice and seeds out before putting the tomato in the blender- I tend to like my sauce a bit thicker. Good luck!
Suzanne B says
08/21/2017 at 3:29 pmHi Star,
Not sure if you would even know the answer (or if another poster has already asked), but since it’s summer & I have SO MANY fresh tomatoes, if I wanted to use fresh vs. canned, would I simply just swap using the same weight/amount?
Thanks!
Star says
08/22/2017 at 11:53 amI have yet to try using fresh tomatoes. This is the first year I will have an abundance of garden tomatoes to test it out with! I was in the school of thought that you needed to take the skin off tomatoes and de-seed them. So I was personally always turned off by having to do all of that. Ha ha! But after a little research I have found that a lot of people just dice them up and throw them in a pot to make homemade sauce without worrying about the skins and such. I am excited to try for myself soon! I would say about 6-7 cups of diced tomatoes would be about the same. I will test it out soon myself and I’ll update the post with what I find out.
Jenna says
03/30/2017 at 9:29 amHi there, found you on Instagram and checked out your page. Nice recipes and I will have to make this one! I have weight watcher recipes on my site as well. Check it out!
Star says
03/30/2017 at 1:04 pmWelcome, Just bookmarked your page and I’ll check it out soon! The first photo I saw of the shrimp pasta looked gorgeous =) Enjoy the sauce, it’s a favorite!!
Jenna says
03/30/2017 at 9:29 amHi there, found you on Instagram and checked out your page. Nice recipes and I will have to make this one! I have weight watcher recipes on my site as well. Check it out!
Star says
03/30/2017 at 1:04 pmWelcome, Just bookmarked your page and I’ll check it out soon! The first photo I saw of the shrimp pasta looked gorgeous =) Enjoy the sauce, it’s a favorite!!
Kayla says
03/27/2017 at 4:34 pmHi there you say to use the following:
3- 28 oz cans Crushed Tomatoes, no salt added
2- 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
Can I ask where you are finding Crushed tomatoes with no salt? I can’t seem to find ANY anywhere! I can find DICED tomatoes with no salt.. but no crushed ones. Can I crush my own with the diced?
Also do your diced tomatoes have salt or also no salt?
Thanks!
Star says
03/29/2017 at 9:27 pmHey Kayla, When I first started making the recipe years ago there was crushed tomatoes with no salt added in just about every brand. Now, they are harder to find. I make them with either one and it doesn’t affect the taste, points, or calories. I also switch back and forth between no salt added or regular diced tomatoes. It depends mostly as to what I have on hand when I need to make it. If you are trying to watch your sodium content then for sure just use all diced tomatoes with no salt added, add salt to your liking, and blend the sauce with an immersion blender to achieve a smoother sauce.
Kayla says
03/27/2017 at 4:34 pmHi there you say to use the following:
3- 28 oz cans Crushed Tomatoes, no salt added
2- 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
Can I ask where you are finding Crushed tomatoes with no salt? I can’t seem to find ANY anywhere! I can find DICED tomatoes with no salt.. but no crushed ones. Can I crush my own with the diced?
Also do your diced tomatoes have salt or also no salt?
Thanks!
Star says
03/29/2017 at 9:27 pmHey Kayla, When I first started making the recipe years ago there was crushed tomatoes with no salt added in just about every brand. Now, they are harder to find. I make them with either one and it doesn’t affect the taste, points, or calories. I also switch back and forth between no salt added or regular diced tomatoes. It depends mostly as to what I have on hand when I need to make it. If you are trying to watch your sodium content then for sure just use all diced tomatoes with no salt added, add salt to your liking, and blend the sauce with an immersion blender to achieve a smoother sauce.
Bonnie says
03/20/2017 at 2:09 pmIf you don’t have any basil, can you up the oregano?
Star says
03/20/2017 at 2:52 pmMaybe an extra shake or two. If you have Italian Seasoning, just sub that
Bonnie says
03/20/2017 at 2:09 pmIf you don’t have any basil, can you up the oregano?
Star says
03/20/2017 at 2:52 pmMaybe an extra shake or two. If you have Italian Seasoning, just sub that
Pam Freeman says
03/09/2017 at 2:11 pmI sent an email before I saw this and see someone ask the same question about the instant pot! I may try that but either way, I am looking forward to making this!!! YUM! and 0pts!
Pam Freeman says
03/09/2017 at 2:11 pmI sent an email before I saw this and see someone ask the same question about the instant pot! I may try that but either way, I am looking forward to making this!!! YUM! and 0pts!
Danielle bentley says
03/05/2017 at 1:47 pmCan you do this in an instant pot?
Star says
03/07/2017 at 7:33 pmI’m sure you can, but I have never tried it. Sorry!
Danielle bentley says
03/05/2017 at 1:47 pmCan you do this in an instant pot?
Star says
03/07/2017 at 7:33 pmI’m sure you can, but I have never tried it. Sorry!
Whitney D says
03/01/2017 at 2:40 pmLove this sauce! Love it even more since it has ZERO Smart Points! I put it in the crockpot before going to bed last night and the house smelled HEAVENLY this morning! Definitely has a kick to it with the red pepper! What would you recommend to dial it down a notch or two? Thought about just adding another can of diced tomatoes and maybe a tad bit of Splenda to add a slight sweet taste.
Star says
03/04/2017 at 7:57 pmI am so happy you like it! I should really put a disclaimer about the red pepper. A little goes A LONG way and if you’re not a lover of a bit of spicy it can be surprising. haha! I would suggest maybe adding another can of diced tomatoes and it might lessen the spice overall. You could add splenda, but I don’t know how that would taste because I’ve never tried it. I’ve added carrots for a “sweetness” before in the sauce. I’m sorry I don’t have a better solution! Keep in mind you’ll probably be making it to go into things so the level of spice should drown out a bit!
Whitney D says
03/01/2017 at 2:40 pmLove this sauce! Love it even more since it has ZERO Smart Points! I put it in the crockpot before going to bed last night and the house smelled HEAVENLY this morning! Definitely has a kick to it with the red pepper! What would you recommend to dial it down a notch or two? Thought about just adding another can of diced tomatoes and maybe a tad bit of Splenda to add a slight sweet taste.
Star says
03/04/2017 at 7:57 pmI am so happy you like it! I should really put a disclaimer about the red pepper. A little goes A LONG way and if you’re not a lover of a bit of spicy it can be surprising. haha! I would suggest maybe adding another can of diced tomatoes and it might lessen the spice overall. You could add splenda, but I don’t know how that would taste because I’ve never tried it. I’ve added carrots for a “sweetness” before in the sauce. I’m sorry I don’t have a better solution! Keep in mind you’ll probably be making it to go into things so the level of spice should drown out a bit!
Sam says
03/01/2017 at 1:34 pmHi! I put this into my recipe builder on WW and when I edited it to be a “drink” (aka something that it blended, which makes it count the fruits and vegetables’ points since it’s now a liquid) the sauce had 1 point per serving 🙁 Do you just leave it in the recipe as is and not say that it’s been blended (aka mark it as a “drink” in the recipe builder)? Thanks for your help! I’m new to this WW stuff!
Star says
03/04/2017 at 8:01 pmHi Sam! I really don’t follow the blended rule when it comes to the marinara. It’s not a total liquid. I only follow it from time to time with higher sugar blended fruits. I hope that helps! Use with your own discretion of course, but I don’t think some crushed up tomatoes and seasonings are really going to do too much damage. Hope you enjoy!
Sam says
03/01/2017 at 1:34 pmHi! I put this into my recipe builder on WW and when I edited it to be a “drink” (aka something that it blended, which makes it count the fruits and vegetables’ points since it’s now a liquid) the sauce had 1 point per serving 🙁 Do you just leave it in the recipe as is and not say that it’s been blended (aka mark it as a “drink” in the recipe builder)? Thanks for your help! I’m new to this WW stuff!
Star says
03/04/2017 at 8:01 pmHi Sam! I really don’t follow the blended rule when it comes to the marinara. It’s not a total liquid. I only follow it from time to time with higher sugar blended fruits. I hope that helps! Use with your own discretion of course, but I don’t think some crushed up tomatoes and seasonings are really going to do too much damage. Hope you enjoy!
DJ Antone says
02/18/2017 at 5:52 pmthis sauce is the BEST I’ve made! And…I’ve tried plenty! So appreciate the Weight Watcher info as well!! Thanks!
Star says
02/20/2017 at 1:12 pmI’m so thrilled you enjoyed!
DJ Antone says
02/18/2017 at 5:52 pmthis sauce is the BEST I’ve made! And…I’ve tried plenty! So appreciate the Weight Watcher info as well!! Thanks!
Star says
02/20/2017 at 1:12 pmI’m so thrilled you enjoyed!
TANILLE MENDENHALL says
02/13/2017 at 10:42 amLOVE this sauce!!! I have ditched the jarred spaghetti sauce and have been relying exclusively on this marinara in all of my recipes for the last 8 months. I typically get 11-12 cups of sauce after using the immersion blender. So easy, so versatile, so delicious, and only 0 points….I mean seriously?! I feel like I’m writing a commercial for this sauce, but I just had to thank you for this recipe–and all of your recipes!!!
Star says
02/13/2017 at 7:30 pmhaha! I am so happy you love it so much. Thanks for the enthusiasm and thanks for enjoying the recipes!
TANILLE MENDENHALL says
02/13/2017 at 10:42 amLOVE this sauce!!! I have ditched the jarred spaghetti sauce and have been relying exclusively on this marinara in all of my recipes for the last 8 months. I typically get 11-12 cups of sauce after using the immersion blender. So easy, so versatile, so delicious, and only 0 points….I mean seriously?! I feel like I’m writing a commercial for this sauce, but I just had to thank you for this recipe–and all of your recipes!!!
Star says
02/13/2017 at 7:30 pmhaha! I am so happy you love it so much. Thanks for the enthusiasm and thanks for enjoying the recipes!
Nancy says
02/08/2017 at 2:00 pmHave you ever canned the sause?
Star says
02/08/2017 at 6:38 pmI haven’t, but I don’t see any reason it would not work. Maybe I’ll take an adventure into the canning world and try it out. I’ve never canned anything before!
Nancy says
02/08/2017 at 2:00 pmHave you ever canned the sause?
Star says
02/08/2017 at 6:38 pmI haven’t, but I don’t see any reason it would not work. Maybe I’ll take an adventure into the canning world and try it out. I’ve never canned anything before!
Nequila says
01/30/2017 at 12:17 pmHave you or could I put mushrooms in this?
Star says
01/30/2017 at 12:49 pmI don’t see why not. I personally hate mushrooms. Haha! Every once and awhile I add bell peppers and carrots to get more of veggie rich marinara so It should work just fine. I would use fresh!
Nequila says
01/30/2017 at 12:17 pmHave you or could I put mushrooms in this?
Star says
01/30/2017 at 12:49 pmI don’t see why not. I personally hate mushrooms. Haha! Every once and awhile I add bell peppers and carrots to get more of veggie rich marinara so It should work just fine. I would use fresh!
Julie says
12/30/2016 at 8:28 amThis sauce is great! I can use it in any recipe instead of spaghetti sauce so I’m not adding any extra points. I love it makes a lot so I can freeze it to pull out whenever I need it.
Star says
12/30/2016 at 6:42 pmIt feels so good to cut out points so we can enjoy a bit of extra spaghetti and cheese, doesn’t it!? =)
Julie says
12/30/2016 at 8:28 amThis sauce is great! I can use it in any recipe instead of spaghetti sauce so I’m not adding any extra points. I love it makes a lot so I can freeze it to pull out whenever I need it.
Star says
12/30/2016 at 6:42 pmIt feels so good to cut out points so we can enjoy a bit of extra spaghetti and cheese, doesn’t it!? =)
Kari says
12/29/2016 at 8:53 pmDo you have to put onions in the marinara sauce mix or can you do without? I’m dealing with a picky eater of a husband!
Star says
12/29/2016 at 8:55 pmThis marinara is super customizable. I’ve made without a time or two just because I was out. It still has a very rich flavor. =) Be sure not to skip on the seasonings and garlic otherwise it will taste mostly like tomatoes then. I hope y’all enjoy!
Kari says
12/29/2016 at 8:53 pmDo you have to put onions in the marinara sauce mix or can you do without? I’m dealing with a picky eater of a husband!
Star says
12/29/2016 at 8:55 pmThis marinara is super customizable. I’ve made without a time or two just because I was out. It still has a very rich flavor. =) Be sure not to skip on the seasonings and garlic otherwise it will taste mostly like tomatoes then. I hope y’all enjoy!
Alyssa says
12/29/2016 at 8:39 pmThis has to go in my “favorites” because it’s zero points and I use it regularly!
Star says
12/30/2016 at 7:00 pmYes girl! Anything to cut some points! haha
Alyssa says
12/29/2016 at 8:39 pmThis has to go in my “favorites” because it’s zero points and I use it regularly!
Star says
12/30/2016 at 7:00 pmYes girl! Anything to cut some points! haha
karen mac says
11/15/2016 at 4:10 pmYour recipe calls for crushed tomatoes, but i see in your photo they look like whole tomatoes. Did you do it both ways and prefer one to the other?
You said 2cups per bag and you got 5 bags, but in a comment back to someone you said it yeilds 6 cups. I got about 5 quarts of sauce. I have’nt tried it yet as its still cooking. But it certainly smells wonderful in my house.
Star says
11/19/2016 at 8:43 pmI use whole tomatoes and crushed tomatoes depending on what I grab at the store. It truly doesn’t make much of a difference. It just requires the extra step of blending with a immersion blender or blender. I find that not everyone has a immersion blender or likes to put things in a stand blender so I put the easiest method for the recipe so that everyone can enjoy. I hope you enjoyed the sauce. It sure makes the house smell like you’ve been slaving over a stove all day!
karen mac says
11/15/2016 at 4:10 pmYour recipe calls for crushed tomatoes, but i see in your photo they look like whole tomatoes. Did you do it both ways and prefer one to the other?
You said 2cups per bag and you got 5 bags, but in a comment back to someone you said it yeilds 6 cups. I got about 5 quarts of sauce. I have’nt tried it yet as its still cooking. But it certainly smells wonderful in my house.
Star says
11/19/2016 at 8:43 pmI use whole tomatoes and crushed tomatoes depending on what I grab at the store. It truly doesn’t make much of a difference. It just requires the extra step of blending with a immersion blender or blender. I find that not everyone has a immersion blender or likes to put things in a stand blender so I put the easiest method for the recipe so that everyone can enjoy. I hope you enjoyed the sauce. It sure makes the house smell like you’ve been slaving over a stove all day!
KarenK says
11/07/2016 at 9:08 pmThanks for a great recipe! I made this today and it made my house smell terrific. A little spicy for my kiddos but my husband and I loved it. Next time, I’ll just take the red pepper flakes down a notch.
Star says
11/10/2016 at 9:40 pmSo happy you liked it! I should actually put a disclaimer saying to add a little less red pepper if not sure of the amount of spice you’d like. (I tend to like things a little more spicy) I’m so happy you enjoyed it despite that.
KarenK says
11/07/2016 at 9:08 pmThanks for a great recipe! I made this today and it made my house smell terrific. A little spicy for my kiddos but my husband and I loved it. Next time, I’ll just take the red pepper flakes down a notch.
Star says
11/10/2016 at 9:40 pmSo happy you liked it! I should actually put a disclaimer saying to add a little less red pepper if not sure of the amount of spice you’d like. (I tend to like things a little more spicy) I’m so happy you enjoyed it despite that.
Katie says
10/17/2016 at 1:43 pmHi Star,
I am currently making this sauce and inputting it into the recipe builder and I have a couple of questions! What did you put as the serving in the app? Also, when I input the brand name cans of crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, it is coming out to 2 points per serving. I’m thinking maybe because there is sugar in the canned tomatoes? I’m just trying to get it figured out in my app so I can create the recipe. Thank you!
Star says
10/17/2016 at 9:00 pmHi Katie, All fruits have natural sugars in them, so most likely that is why it is calculating out to have points. If you scanned a bag of apples it would also have points. If you look at the list of ingredients and it has no additional sugars/oil then it will be 0 Points. This recipe yields about 6 cups. I hope that helps! Best, Star
Katie says
10/17/2016 at 1:43 pmHi Star,
I am currently making this sauce and inputting it into the recipe builder and I have a couple of questions! What did you put as the serving in the app? Also, when I input the brand name cans of crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, it is coming out to 2 points per serving. I’m thinking maybe because there is sugar in the canned tomatoes? I’m just trying to get it figured out in my app so I can create the recipe. Thank you!
Star says
10/17/2016 at 9:00 pmHi Katie, All fruits have natural sugars in them, so most likely that is why it is calculating out to have points. If you scanned a bag of apples it would also have points. If you look at the list of ingredients and it has no additional sugars/oil then it will be 0 Points. This recipe yields about 6 cups. I hope that helps! Best, Star
Erin Stuart says
10/03/2016 at 1:40 pmDo I have to use the crock pot? If not, how long do you recommend cooking it on the stove?
Thanks!
Star says
10/05/2016 at 8:34 pmHi Erin! You don’t have to use the crockpot, but the trick to getting the marinara to taste so good and for the tomatoes to lose the acidic taste is to cook as long as possible. I would cook on the stove on low and for as long as possible. I’d say try to simmer for at least an hour, taste it, and if it tastes good then you are good to go!
Erin Stuart says
10/03/2016 at 1:40 pmDo I have to use the crock pot? If not, how long do you recommend cooking it on the stove?
Thanks!
Star says
10/05/2016 at 8:34 pmHi Erin! You don’t have to use the crockpot, but the trick to getting the marinara to taste so good and for the tomatoes to lose the acidic taste is to cook as long as possible. I would cook on the stove on low and for as long as possible. I’d say try to simmer for at least an hour, taste it, and if it tastes good then you are good to go!
Becky says
07/22/2016 at 11:42 amMaking this in the crockpot today and I’m so excited! I had some of trader Joe’s fresh brushetta left over, so I threw it in the mix too.
Becky says
07/22/2016 at 11:42 amMaking this in the crockpot today and I’m so excited! I had some of trader Joe’s fresh brushetta left over, so I threw it in the mix too.
Katy says
05/25/2016 at 6:07 pmI made this for the Garden Veggie Bake (in my oven now!) and it is SO DELICIOUS. It is also the easiest sauce I have ever made! I’m so happy I found your blog 🙂
mamacupcake says
06/09/2016 at 11:11 pmYay! I’m happy you found it too! I hope you enjoyed it and the veggie bake!
Katy says
05/25/2016 at 6:07 pmI made this for the Garden Veggie Bake (in my oven now!) and it is SO DELICIOUS. It is also the easiest sauce I have ever made! I’m so happy I found your blog 🙂
mamacupcake says
06/09/2016 at 11:11 pmYay! I’m happy you found it too! I hope you enjoyed it and the veggie bake!
Melissa says
05/24/2016 at 6:56 pmI didn’t come up with zero smart points in the recipe builder, the diced tomatoes do have points. Still lower in points than jarred marinara!
mamacupcake says
05/24/2016 at 7:55 pmThe diced tomatoes that I use do not have points, maybe it’s the brand?
Melissa says
05/24/2016 at 8:22 pmMust be! Which brand do you use?
Manda says
11/02/2016 at 6:47 pmHi Star 🙂
What brand of tomatoes do you use? I am not having luck with finding the Crushed Tomatoes with no salt added. Would the regular one work and not add any salt like the recipe says to?
Melissa says
05/24/2016 at 6:56 pmI didn’t come up with zero smart points in the recipe builder, the diced tomatoes do have points. Still lower in points than jarred marinara!
mamacupcake says
05/24/2016 at 7:55 pmThe diced tomatoes that I use do not have points, maybe it’s the brand?
Melissa says
05/24/2016 at 8:22 pmMust be! Which brand do you use?
Manda says
11/02/2016 at 6:47 pmHi Star 🙂
What brand of tomatoes do you use? I am not having luck with finding the Crushed Tomatoes with no salt added. Would the regular one work and not add any salt like the recipe says to?
Michelle Leyko says
05/24/2016 at 12:17 pmVery good and easy recipe. I made one batch and when my freezer supply is over, I will be making another. So handy to have on hand.
mamacupcake says
05/24/2016 at 1:17 pmBeing a busy mama – easy and quick is one of my favorite things! I’m so glad you enjoyed and found it easy to prepare! 🙂
Michelle Leyko says
05/24/2016 at 12:17 pmVery good and easy recipe. I made one batch and when my freezer supply is over, I will be making another. So handy to have on hand.
mamacupcake says
05/24/2016 at 1:17 pmBeing a busy mama – easy and quick is one of my favorite things! I’m so glad you enjoyed and found it easy to prepare! 🙂
Robyn Mackelprang says
05/21/2016 at 5:03 pmLooks so good! Heading to the store to get ingredients 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
mamacupcake says
05/22/2016 at 10:03 pmyay! I hope you enjoy!!
Robyn Mackelprang says
05/21/2016 at 5:03 pmLooks so good! Heading to the store to get ingredients 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
mamacupcake says
05/22/2016 at 10:03 pmyay! I hope you enjoy!!
Karen says
04/09/2016 at 11:07 amIs there a Pinterest link for this recipe?
Karen says
04/09/2016 at 11:07 amIs there a Pinterest link for this recipe?
Tiffany says
04/08/2016 at 11:17 pmDo you thaw in refrigerator the day/night prior to using it (probably an obvious answer but still have to ask haha)
mamacupcake says
04/08/2016 at 11:19 pmI usually take it out of the freezer the night before, but the day of is fine too! If you’re in a bind and forgot to take it out. (Like me) just get a bowl of hot water and thaw it for about five minutes- it’s a pretty quick thaw! ☺️
Tiffany says
04/08/2016 at 11:41 pmAwesome! Thanks for the tip(s)!! Definitely making this soon 🙂
Law says
01/18/2019 at 2:57 pmThank you for that awesome recepies. I was wondering if it is possible to cut the receipt in half?
I can’t wait to make it!
Star says
01/18/2019 at 7:37 pmHi there! Cutting the recipe in half should be just fine. I hope you enjoy!
undercoverweightwatcher says
04/09/2016 at 1:10 pmI love making homemade marinara. I’m Italian, so I can’t go too many days before I need pasta and red sauce. I love San Marzano or Cento canned tomatoes. A bit of crushed red pepper, garlic, and fresh basil and I’m a happy girl.
I need to try your crockpot recipe so I can have a big batch in the freezer for ever and always.
Tiffany says
04/08/2016 at 11:17 pmDo you thaw in refrigerator the day/night prior to using it (probably an obvious answer but still have to ask haha)
mamacupcake says
04/08/2016 at 11:19 pmI usually take it out of the freezer the night before, but the day of is fine too! If you’re in a bind and forgot to take it out. (Like me) just get a bowl of hot water and thaw it for about five minutes- it’s a pretty quick thaw! ☺️
Tiffany says
04/08/2016 at 11:41 pmAwesome! Thanks for the tip(s)!! Definitely making this soon 🙂
undercoverweightwatcher says
04/09/2016 at 1:10 pmI love making homemade marinara. I’m Italian, so I can’t go too many days before I need pasta and red sauce. I love San Marzano or Cento canned tomatoes. A bit of crushed red pepper, garlic, and fresh basil and I’m a happy girl.
I need to try your crockpot recipe so I can have a big batch in the freezer for ever and always.