Homemade marinara sauce

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Preserve the vibrant flavors of your homemade marinara sauce with proper storage techniques. This versatile tomato-based sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, and countless other Italian-inspired dishes, and knowing how to keep it fresh ensures delicious meals every time.

Storage Time

3–4 days in the refrigerator, up to 4–6 months in the freezer.

Temperature

Store refrigerated marinara sauce at or below 4°C (40°F).

Freezing

Homemade marinara sauce freezes beautifully, retaining its rich taste and texture. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a small headspace for expansion. For convenient portioning, consider freezing in ice cube trays and then transferring the frozen cubes to a larger bag. Thaw frozen marinara sauce overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid refreezing thawed sauce.

Signs of Spoilage

• A sour or off odor that is distinctly different from its usual aroma.
• Visible mold growth, which can appear as fuzzy patches of various colors (white, green, black).
• A slimy or gummy texture when stirred, indicating bacterial activity.