Slow Cooker Spinach Marinara Sauce

Add a splash of red wine for added depth of flavor.

For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender before serving.

Try using fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky variation of the classic marinara sauce.

For a chunkier sauce, leave the vegetables in larger pieces while cooking.

Try different varieties of mushrooms for different flavors and textures. You can use fresh mushrooms, just saute them in a little oil or butter before adding to the crock pot.

Adding a pinch of sugar can help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes if needed. Add it at the end, however, as flavors change with the long cooking time.

For a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of ricotta or cream cheese before serving.

Don't skip draining the spinach thoroughly to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

To make the sauce in a shorter time, simmer it on the stovetop for 30-45 minutes instead of using a crock pot.

Why are there carrots in this marinara sauce?

Carrots add natural sweetness and help balance the acidity of the tomatoes in the sauce. You won't even notice them in the end result.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

You can use fresh spinach, but make sure to cook it down until wilted before adding it to the sauce. You'll need 1 pound of fresh spinach in place of the 10 ounces frozen.

How can I adjust the spice level in this sauce? 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper seems like a lot.

You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to taste. Marinara has a sharper flavor to it than other pasta sauces but it's not spicy hot.

Can I add other vegetables to this sauce?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.

Is it necessary to cook the onions before adding them to the crock pot?

Cooking the onions before adding them helps to enhance their flavor, but you can skip this step if you prefer.

How can I make this sauce more hearty?

You can add cooked ground meat such as beef, turkey, or sausage to make the sauce more filling.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

You can use fresh herbs, but be sure to adjust the quantities as fresh herbs tend to have a milder flavor than dried. Use 3x as much fresh herbs vs dried. For this recipe you'd use 1/3 cup each of fresh oregano and basil in place of the 2 tablespoons of dried.

How do I know when the sauce is done cooking in the crock pot?

The sauce is done when the flavors have melded together, and the vegetables are tender. It's hard to overcook this sauce as the longer it cooks, the more flavorful it gets.

How should I store leftovers of this sauce?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave (or even in the crock pot again).

Skillet: To saute the onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot. Make sure it's a large skillet to accommodate all the ingredients.

Can Opener: Don't forget this essential tool to open the cans of tomato paste, sliced mushrooms, and crushed tomatoes.

Grater: For grating the carrot.

Wooden Spoon: To stir the ingredients in the crock pot without scratching the surface.

Crock Pot: The star of the show! This slow cooker will work its magic to simmer all the ingredients together.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring out the various ingredients like the grated carrot, salt, basil, etc.

Spaghetti and Meatballs: the hearty spinach marinara sauce will bring a burst of flavor to classic spaghetti and meatballs. The richness of the sauce will pair perfectly with tender meatballs and al dente pasta.

Garlic Bread: slather this flavorful spinach marinara sauce on a thick slice of garlic bread. The savory garlic notes in the sauce will enhance the buttery garlic flavor of the bread.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: use this spinach marinara sauce in place of basic tomato sauce for your stuffed peppers recipe.

Chicken Parmesan: smother a crispy chicken parmesan cutlet with this spinach marinara sauce. The tangy tomato flavor of the sauce will brighten up the dish and make it a family favorite.

Zucchini Noodles: toss zucchini noodles with this spinach marinara sauce for a fresh, low-carb twist on a classic pasta dish.