You’ll want to keep a jar or two of this pantry staple on hand at all times.

It’s also just begging to be doctored up.

In short, marinara sauce is a superstar.

Cheesy baked pasta served in a dutch oven.

Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless , Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

But, what is marinara sauce exactly?

It’s famously kid-friendly and tangy enough to stand up to rich ingredients like cheese and sausage.

Try a few different brands, decide on your fave, and verify you’re never without a jar.

Cast-Iron-Pepperoni-Pizza-with-Simple-Salad

Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless , Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Since the pizza cooks in acast-iron pan, you’re guaranteed a golden, crisp crust.

With shrimp, clams, and mussels, this big batch bowl of goodness is sure to impress.

It’s a delicious canvas for marinara, salami, and thinly sliced delicata squash.

1223FEA-shellfish-spaghetti

Victor Protasio

Another perk: with this recipe there’s no need to prepare any side dishes.

Your protein (sausage) and veg (broccoli) are nestled into the saucy pasta.

Slow Cooker Spinach Lasagna

Yes, you’re able to make lasagna in the slow cooker!

Two eggplant parmesan paninis are placed on a cutting board.

Caitlin Bensel

There’s no need to boil the noodles first.

Just layer them with marinara sauce, cheese, and thawed frozen spinach for a boost of veggie power.

The result is perfectly cooked comfort food.

Sicilian-Pizza-with-Shave-Delicata-Salami-Pecorino-Recipe

CHRISTOPHER TESTANI

Everything goes straight into a baking dish, including a jar of marinara.

The medley spends about an hour in the oven, and comes out a winner.

roasted veggie calzones

Fred Hardy

Slow-Cooker Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna With Romaine Salad

José Picayo

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Marcus Nilsson

slow-cooker-deep-dish-pizza-0921FOO

Victor Protasio