11 Marinara Recipes and Meals That Make Dinner Easy

Marinara isn’t just for pasta—it’s the backbone of everything from cheesy bites to hearty mains. These recipes show how this tomato-based classic can take on bold, comforting, and even vegan flavors. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, air fryer, or making your own sauce from scratch, marinara ties everything together. It’s simple, familiar, and always satisfying.

Air Fryer Chicken Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Dip

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Ground chicken wraps around mozzarella sticks, then crisps up in the air fryer. These are crispy on the outside and melty inside. They’re easy to dip and fun to eat. Great for game day or snacking anytime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Dip

Arancini with Marinara and Broccolini

Golden-fried risotto balls filled with cheese pair beautifully with marinara and tender broccolini. Serve as an appetizer or make it a meal. The contrast of crispy exterior and gooey center makes it irresistible. Every bite is rich and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Arancini with Marinara and Broccolini

Gluten Free Vegan Air Fryer Meatballs with Spaghetti Marinara

These air fryer meatballs are made with plant-based ingredients and packed with herbs and spices. They hold their shape well and cook up with a nice crust. Serve over gluten-free spaghetti and spoon on marinara. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner with no meat or gluten.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Vegan Air Fryer Meatballs with Spaghetti Marinara

Hearty Marinara Sauce

A wooden spoon holds a portion of tomato sauce above a pot filled with more tomato sauce. — Hearty Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs build a bold and aromatic sauce. Olive oil and fresh basil add richness. It’s thick enough for dipping or spooning over pasta. Easy to make and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Marinara Sauce

Italian Garlic Marinara Sauce

A glass jar filled with homemade tomato salsa sits on a wooden surface, with its lid off and another jar and kitchen towel visible in the background. — Italian Garlic Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This sauce brings the punch of fresh garlic with every spoonful. It’s layered with flavor from sautéed onions, tomatoes, and herbs. Use it with spaghetti, pizza, or as a base for other dishes. It’s simple but bold.
Get the Recipe: Italian Garlic Marinara Sauce

Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara

Low-carb pasta pairs with a quick homemade sauce in this easy dinner. It’s grain-free and fits a gluten-free diet. The marinara is rich without being heavy. Great for prep ahead or fast weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara

Italian Meatball Marinara Subs

Juicy homemade meatballs simmer in rich tomato sauce and get tucked into soft brioche buns. Toast the buns for extra texture. These sandwiches are satisfying and easy to put together. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Marinara Subs

Simple Marinara Sauce

A blue-handled pot filled with smooth red tomato sauce sits on a wooden surface. — Simple Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes bring this sauce to life. It’s fast to make and perfect for busy nights. Use it on pasta, pizza, or for dipping breadsticks. A pantry-friendly recipe that still feels homemade.
Get the Recipe: Simple Marinara Sauce

Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

This set-it-and-forget-it meal combines chicken breasts with marinara in the slow cooker. Everything becomes tender and flavorful with no effort. It works well for meal prep or busy weekdays. Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara