Chef Boyardee Tomato Sauce Recipe
The first time I prepared this Chef Boyardee tomato sauce recipe by myself is something I will never forget. I had a longing to have that childhood, comfort, taste but more fresh and homemade.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp sugar optional, balances acidity
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Substitutions & Tips:
- Use fresh tomatoes if in season for extra sweetness.
- Swap olive oil for butter for a richer flavor.
- Adjust herbs to your preference — thyme or rosemary also work beautifully.
Instructions
Heat the Oil
- In a medium saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add Garlic
- Add the minced garlic and heat it another 30 seconds till it smells. Do not burn it -garlic cooks quick!
Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Mix well to combine, ensuring no lumps remain.
Season the Sauce
- Add basil, oregano, sugar (add it in case of using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Blend all the ingredients and simmer.
Simmer for Flavor
- Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer 20 minutes stirring occasionally. This assists in the blending of flavours and the viscosity of the sauce.
Blend for Smoothness
- Puree the sauce using an immersion blender. Or, meticulously hand pour to a blender in batches.
Final Taste Test
- Taste the sauce and add more seasonings. You can add a bit of additional salt, sugar or herbs depending on your taste.
Serve or Store
- Serve and immediately on top of pasta or any preferred dish. Fresh herbs should be added as a garnish to add color.
Notes
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but pair with gluten-free pasta for a complete meal.
- High-Protein Option: Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein for a heartier sauce.
- Dairy-Free: Already dairy-free, but add a drizzle of olive oil or vegan parmesan for creaminess.
- Flavor Twists: Stir in roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a Mediterranean spin.
- Meal Prep: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.