Arby’s Marinara Sauce Recipe

This copycat Arby’s Marinara Sauce is a quick, flavorful dipping sauce that tastes just like the one you’d get in those little warm containers at the drive-thru. It’s one of those easy wins that can level up all your snack-time favorites—no fast food trip required.

Craving that warm, savory marinara sauce from Arby’s? This easy copycat recipe captures all the flavor of their iconic tomato dip, perfect for mozzarella sticks, meatballs, or your favorite air-fried snacks.

Whether you’re dunking fries or spreading it on a sandwich, this Arby’s Marinara Sauce brings the fast-food taste you love—right from your own kitchen.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes just like Arby’s! Warm, slightly sweet, and spiced just right.
• Ready in minutes. Just simmer and serve—no long cooking times required.
• Pantry-friendly. Uses ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Perfect for dipping. Pairs with everything from mozzarella sticks to meatball subs.

🍅 Ingredients Needed

• Tomato sauce – Smooth base that brings the classic marinara texture.
• Tomato paste – Thickens and deepens the tomato flavor.
• Garlic powder – Adds savory depth without needing fresh garlic.
• Onion powder – Boosts flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• Olive oil – Helps carry the flavor and adds richness.
• Dried oregano – Classic Italian herb that gives marinara its distinct taste.
• Dried basil – Rounds out the herb profile with a touch of sweetness.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper – Brings everything together.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For a mild heat, like the subtle kick in Arby’s version.

How To Make Arby’s Marinara Sauce Recipe

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir until fully blended. Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and aromatic.

Step 2: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with mozzarella sticks, garlic bread, or anything you’d dip at Arby’s!

Arby’s Marinara Sauce Recipe Tips

• Use quality tomatoes: Opt for crushed San Marzano or fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Simmer slowly: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for at least 20–30 minutes to develop its signature sweetness and depth.
• Blend for smoothness: For a texture similar to Arby’s, use an immersion blender or regular blender to create a silky, restaurant-style finish.
• Add sugar if needed: Depending on the tomatoes you use, you may need a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
• Perfect for freezing: Double the batch and freeze leftovers in small containers for quick future dipping.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

• Store: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring halfway through.

Arby’s Marinara Sauce Recipe Faqs

Can I make this marinara sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can make it up to 3–5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Can I freeze homemade marinara sauce? Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months

Is this sauce spicy like Arby’s? It’s mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, but you’ll need to simmer them longer to reduce and thicken. Blanch, peel, and chop them before using.

What can I serve this marinara sauce with? It’s great with mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, breadsticks, fries, or as a dipping sauce for sandwiches and wraps.

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