Homemade spaghetti sauce is a comforting and flavorful classic that adds depth to any pasta dish. This easy-to-make sauce uses simple ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and seasonings, creating a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for spaghetti, lasagna, or any dish that calls for a hearty tomato sauce. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a gathering, this homemade spaghetti sauce will be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 (6.5 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 cup water (if needed, to adjust thickness)
Directions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir to incorporate the seasonings into the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce over low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: 40-55 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a little heat.
- Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a more aromatic sauce.
- Richer Sauce: Add a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to deepen the flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
10 FAQs
- Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Yes, this spaghetti sauce can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld.
- What if I don’t have ground beef? You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for ground beef.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to peel, chop, and cook them down to create the desired consistency.
- Is this sauce freezer-friendly? Yes, this sauce freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Can I use a slow cooker to make this sauce? Yes, you can cook the sauce in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours for a rich, slow-simmered flavor.
- How do I make this sauce vegetarian? Replace the ground beef with chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.
- How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce? If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- What’s the purpose of adding sugar to the sauce? Sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and can enhance the overall flavor of the sauce. It’s optional, depending on your taste.
- Can I add cheese to the sauce? Yes, you can add a handful of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese directly into the sauce for extra richness.
- What else can I use this sauce for? Besides spaghetti, this sauce works great in lasagna, baked ziti, meatball subs, or even as a pizza sauce.
Conclusion
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Bliss is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings rich, comforting flavors to your pasta dishes. With its hearty tomato base and savory seasonings, this sauce is sure to enhance any meal. Whether you enjoy it with spaghetti or get creative with other dishes, this homemade sauce will elevate your cooking and provide a taste of homemade goodness in every bite.