What is the Difference Between Marinara Sauce and Spaghetti Sauce?

When it comes down to it, there isn’t a big difference between marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce. Marinara sauce is typically a simple sauce blended from 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. Marinara can be used as a spaghetti sauce or with any other type of pasta, as well as be used as a dipping sauce. 

Spaghetti sauce uses all those same base ingredients and then takes it to the next level, adding proteins and/or vegetables. This creates a heartier sauce and is occasionally referred to as 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

Is Marinara Sauce Pizza Sauce?

Since marinara sauce can be used as spaghetti sauce, you may be wondering, “can you use marinara sauce for pizza?” The answer is yes! Marinara sauce and pizza sauce share the same basic ingredients, meaning you can spread marinara over pizza dough to get that perfect base. Everyone has a personal preference as to what kind of 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

At Salerno’s, we’ve been perfecting our marinara sauce 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 Sauce! 

Our menu is packed with different ways to try our homemade marinara sauce, and we invite you to taste test them all! Whether you visit us in Chicago, Oak Park, Lyons, or Bolingbrook, we’re ready to serve this Italian classic any way you like it. Bring home dinner when you order online!