Store-bought red sauces promise convenience, but do they deliver on taste? A great red sauce balances sweetness and depth of flavor while coating pasta well. Some jarred sauces come close, while others miss the mark. We’ll tell you about 10 popular jarred sauces and if they live up to homemade ones.
Rao’s Homemade Marinara
Right from the first bite, Rao’s sets the bar high with a relatively simple ingredient list and no added sugar. The balance of garlic with basil and ripe tomatoes makes it flavorful. However, it’s on the pricier side, which may not work for every budget. Still, it’s one of the best options for its quality.
Prego Traditional Pasta Sauce
Prego is a familiar, comforting choice with a thick consistency and slightly sweet flavor. It’s widely available and affordable, making it a go-to for many. However, the sweetness may overpower the tomato taste for some. It also lacks the depth of more premium sauces.
Classico Tomato & Basil
If you’re after a fresh-tasting option with visible herbs and a light consistency, Classico is worth considering. The tomato flavor is bright but leans on the thinner side, which might not appeal to those who prefer a heartier sauce. But it’s a good middle-ground option for those looking for a simple, herb-forward sauce.
Barilla Marinara Sauce
Barilla’s marinara is light and slightly tangy, with a clean ingredient list. It’s not overly sweet, which is a plus for those who prefer a more natural tomato taste. However, the flavor is mild, so some may find it a bit plain compared to more robust sauces.
Newman’s Own Sockarooni
Looking for something bold and packed with extra ingredients? Sockarooni delivers with peppers and mushrooms, giving it a unique twist. It’s great for those who enjoy a more flavorful sauce. The strong seasoning can overpower certain dishes, making it less versatile for classic pasta recipes.
Hunt’s Traditional Pasta Sauce
Hunt’s is an affordable choice with a thinner consistency. It has a straightforward tomato taste but lacks complexity. While it works well in quick meals, it may need additional seasoning for those looking for a more well-rounded sauce.
Bertolli Traditional Marinara
For a smooth and slightly richer sauce, Bertolli’s marinara offers an indulgent feel due to the added olive oil. The flavor is mild and balanced, but some may find it lacks a strong tomato punch. It’s a good option for those who like a lighter, silky texture.
Victoria White Linen Marinara
Anyone seeking a high-quality, slow-cooked feel will appreciate Victoria White Linen. It’s one of the closest jarred sauces to a homemade-style marinara, thanks to its simple, slow-cooked ingredients. However, it’s pricier than other options and may not be as widely available as some mainstream brands.
365 By Whole Foods Organic Marinara
Whole Foods’ organic marinara is fresh and clean-tasting, with a lighter consistency. It’s a solid choice for those looking for organic ingredients. However, the mild flavor might not stand out, and it could benefit from added seasoning for those who prefer bolder sauces.
Muir Glen Organic Tomato Basil Sauce
Muir Glen’s organic sauce offers a slightly smoky tomato flavor, thanks to its fire-roasted tomatoes. The basil adds a pleasant herbal note without overpowering the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. However, the consistency is thinner, which makes it better suited for lighter pasta dishes rather than thick-coated meals.
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