Easy Homemade Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
This cozy and flavorful stewed tomatoes recipe turns ripe tomatoes into a chunky, herb-infused sauce that’s perfect for pasta, casseroles, or spooning over your favorite dishes. A true kitchen staple, it brings together fresh ingredients and simple steps for a result that feels homey and versatile.
Ingredients
- 4 lb fresh tomatoes chopped
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 2 celery stalks thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup fresh basil torn
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar optional
- ½ cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 small red bell pepper diced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium. Add onion and celery. Cook 5–7 min until softened.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook 1 min until fragrant and deepened in color.
- Add chopped tomatoes and their juices. Stir to combine.
- Season with oregano, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Pour in water or broth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer 35–40 min, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in fresh basil at the end. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm, store for later, or freeze in portions.