Name: Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness to the sauce.; 1 ½ lb lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein.; 1 medium onion, chopped: For a sweet, aromatic base.; 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor with a subtle kick.; 1 green pepper, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Brings an earthy depth to the sauce.; 1 bay leaf: Infuses the sauce with subtle herbal notes.; ¼ tsp oregano: Classic Italian herb for robust flavor.; 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of essential herbs for authentic taste.; 1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor.; 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz): Forms the sauce’s hearty base.; 1 tomato sauce (12 oz): Adds smoothness and depth.; ½ tsp salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.; ¼ tsp pepper: Provides a mild heat.; 1 tbsp sugar: Balances acidity in the tomatoes.; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Optional garnish for freshness.

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Hey there, my kitchen-loving friend! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’ll have your taste buds singing? Let me introduce you to my all-time favorite homemade spaghetti sauce. This isn’t just any sauce—it’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to twirl forkfuls of pasta with a big smile on your face. The aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs will fill your home with the warm, comforting vibes of an Italian grandma’s kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s a total game-changer for your pasta nights.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Versatile: Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce is your go-to. Serve it over pasta, use it for lasagna, or even as a pizza base—it’s a jack-of-all-trades!
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, this sauce saves you money without skimping on flavor. No fancy ingredients required here!
Rich and Flavorful: Hours of simmering? Who needs it? This recipe brings out deep, robust flavors in less time, thanks to the perfect blend of herbs and spices.
Customizable: Love it spicy? Add chili flakes. Prefer it sweet? A touch of sugar does wonders. This sauce is your blank canvas.
Crowd-Pleasing: Even the pickiest eaters will come back for seconds. Kids, adults, and everyone in between can’t resist a bowl of pasta topped with this masterpiece.

Ingredients

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Crushed Tomatoes: The base of this sauce. Rich, thick, and full of tomato goodness, these create the perfect canvas for all the other flavors.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor. Don’t skimp—it’s the heart of any good spaghetti sauce!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps sauté the aromatics, adding richness to the sauce.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
Dried Oregano: Earthy and fragrant, oregano gives the sauce its classic Italian essence.
Basil: Fresh or dried basil adds a touch of sweetness and an unmistakable Italian vibe.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a pinch gives the sauce a subtle kick.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a perfectly rounded flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Toss in the garlic and sauté for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.

Add the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for about a minute to caramelize slightly. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes and give it a good stir to combine everything.

Season to Perfection

Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to add those red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld.

Simmer Away

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step brings out the rich, deep flavors you’ll love.

Taste and Adjust

Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too acidic, a pinch of sugar will balance it beautifully.

Serve and Savor

Once your sauce is ready, ladle it generously over your favorite pasta. Sprinkle with fresh basil or grated Parmesan for a finishing touch.

How to Serve Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Over Pasta: The classic pairing! Choose spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta shape.
For Lasagna: Layer it with noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella for a hearty, comforting dish.
As a Pizza Sauce: Spread it over pizza dough for a homemade pizza night.
With Garlic Bread: Use it as a dipping sauce for warm, crusty garlic bread.
Over Veggies: Spoon it over roasted zucchini, eggplant, or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Freeze It: This sauce freezes beautifully. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a luxurious, velvety finish.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A1: Absolutely! Blanch and peel fresh tomatoes, then chop or purée them for a fresh take.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Q3: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A3: Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q4: How can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
A4: It already is! Just ensure your accompaniments align with your dietary needs.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat the sauce?
A5: Warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency.
Q6: Can I use this sauce for meatballs?
A6: Absolutely! It’s the perfect companion for homemade meatballs.
Q7: What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
A7: Substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove.
Q8: How do I thicken the sauce?
A8: Let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally.
Q9: Can I make it spicy?
A9: Sure! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Q10: Can I add wine to the sauce?
A10: Yes! A splash of red wine adds depth and richness to the flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—homemade spaghetti sauce that’s bursting with flavor and ready to elevate your pasta nights. Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this sauce is a surefire hit. Give it a try, and let the magic of simple ingredients and love for good food shine through. Bon appétit!