What is the Difference Between Spaghetti Sauce and Marinara?

Are tomato sauce and pasta sauce the same? When it comes down to it, there isn’t a big difference between marinara and spaghetti sauce. Marinara pizza sauce is a simple sauce blended with tomatoes and aromatic ingredients, such as onions and garlic. Additional seasonings and herbs, such as basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and more can be added depending on personal preference. 

What are some uses for marinara sauce? Marinara can be used as a spaghetti sauce or with any other type of pasta, or it can be used as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks, breadsticks, and more. Spaghetti sauce uses all those same base ingredients and then takes it to the next level with proteins and/or vegetables. This creates a heartier sauce and is occasionally called a “meat sauce.” To turn your marinara sauce into a spaghetti sauce, try adding:

• Ground beef or turkey
• Italian sausage
• Diced carrots 
• Red or green bell peppers
• Shredded zucchini

What is the Difference Between Pizza Sauce and Marinara?

Now that we know the answer to the question “What is the difference between spaghetti sauce and marinara?” you may wonder, “What is the difference between pizza sauce and marinara?” Marinara sauce and pizza sauce share the same essential ingredients, meaning you can spread marinara over pizza dough to get that perfect base. Everyone has a different preference for what pizza sauce they like best, but in many cases, adding more tomatoes to the marinara will produce a thicker, richer taste that will create the best pizza experience.

Salerno’s is All About Sauce

We’ve been perfecting our marinara pizza sauce at Salerno’s since 1966, but we didn’t stop there! We offer a full suite of savory sauces to top your pasta dishes, including: 

• Vodka: a rich blend of tomato sauce, vodka, and heavy cream
• Alfredo: a mouthwatering combination of butter and parmesan 
• Meat sauce: a hearty spaghetti sauce with Italian sausage
• Aglio e olio: a light blend of garlic and oil

Try Our Classic Marinara Pizza Sauce!

Our menu features different uses of marinara sauce, and we invite you to taste-test them all! Whether you visit us in Oak Park or Lyons, we’re ready to serve this Italian classic any way you like it. Bring home dinner when you order online!