Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a spaghetti sauce truly memorable, you’re in the right place! Making spaghetti sauce at home is easier than you think, and the flavor is leagues ahead of anything you can buy in a jar. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this spaghetti sauce recipe will be your go-to for a comforting and satisfying meal.

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Picture this: A simmering pot of rich tomato sauce, infused with aromatic garlic, herbs, and a touch of love. Sounds amazing, right? Well, let’s dive into the ultimate recipe with spaghetti sauce that will elevate your pasta game to the next level!

Why Make Your Own Spaghetti Sauce?

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Sure, store-bought sauce is convenient, but making it from scratch gives you control over the flavor, ingredients, and texture. You avoid preservatives, excessive sugar, and artificial additives. Plus, the aroma of a homemade sauce simmering on the stove is simply unbeatable!

Ingredients for a Perfect spaghetti sauce

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil – For sautéing the base ingredients.
• Onion & garlic – The flavor backbone of any good sauce.
• Crushed tomatoes – The heart of your spaghetti sauce.
• Tomato paste – For a deeper, richer tomato taste.
• Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt & pepper – To balance and enhance flavors.
• Sugar – Just a pinch to reduce acidity.
• Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little heat.
• Fresh basil – For a burst of freshness.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

For the best sauce, always use San Marzano tomatoes if possible. They’re naturally sweeter, less acidic, and have a richer texture. Canned crushed tomatoes work well too, especially for convenience.

Essential Herbs and Spices

• Basil & oregano – The classic Italian duo.
• Bay leaves – Add depth to the sauce.
• Parsley – Great for a fresh, herby finish.
• Thyme & rosemary – Optional but add complexity.

The Secret Ingredient for Extra Flavor

Want to take your sauce to the next level? A splash of red wine! It enhances the depth of the sauce, making it richer and more complex.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the onions and garlic – Heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped onions and minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.spaghetti sauce
2. Add tomato paste – Stir for a minute to caramelize and deepen the flavor.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes – Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Season the sauce – Add salt, pepper, sugar, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer for 30-45 minutes – Stir occasionally and let flavors meld together.
6. Add fresh basil at the end – For an aromatic, fresh touch.
7. Taste and adjust – Add more seasoning if needed.

How Long to Simmer the Sauce?

Simmering for 30-45 minutes is ideal, but if you have time, letting it cook for 1-2 hours results in an even richer sauce.

Tips for Thickening the Sauce

• Let it simmer longer – Evaporates excess water.
• Use tomato paste – Adds thickness and richness.
• Mash some tomatoes – Break them down further.

Variations to Try spaghetti sauce recipe

• Meaty Sauce – Add ground beef, sausage, or even bacon.
• Vegetarian – Load it up with mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Arrabbiata – Increase red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Best Pasta Pairings

• Classic spaghetti – The ultimate combination.
• Penne – Great for holding onto sauce.
• Linguine – Works well for a smooth, even coating.

Storing and Freezing the Sauce

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Can last up to 3 months in a sealed bag or container.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking garlic – It turns bitter.
• Not simmering long enough – Flavors need time to develop.
• Adding too much sugar – Just a small amount balances acidity.

Health Benefits of Homemade spaghetti sauce

Homemade sauce is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making it a much healthier alternative to store-bought versions.

Serving Suggestions

• Topped with Parmesan and fresh basil.
• Served with garlic bread on the side.
• As a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks.

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Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

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cooking

A rich, flavorful homemade spaghetti sauce made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of love. Perfect for pasta lovers!

4 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 cups

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Large Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes preferably San Marzano
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sugar balances acidity
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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• Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
• Pour in crushed tomatoes and water (or broth), stirring to combine.
• Season with Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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• Add fresh basil, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes before turning off the heat.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve over your favorite pasta.

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Notes

For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer for up to 2 hours. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword making spaghetti sauce, recipe with spaghetti sauce, spaghetti sauce recipe

FAQs

Making spaghetti sauce at home is easy, delicious, and totally worth it! Whether you’re making a classic version or adding your own twist, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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