Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of pasta topped with rich, homemade sauce. Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is one of those recipes that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. I remember the first time I attempted to make my own sauce. The aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. It was a chilly evening, and the thought of a warm plate of spaghetti was just what I needed. As the sauce simmered gently on the stove, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a labor of love, crafted from fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

Each bite of Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is a reminder of the joy of cooking from scratch. It’s versatile, too! Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti, using it in a baked pasta dish, or simply enjoying it with some crusty bread, it never disappoints. The balance of flavors is something that store-bought sauces simply can’t replicate. You’ve got that savory ground beef, the sweetness of tomato sauce, and a medley of herbs that enhance every bite. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple in my home.

Making your own spaghetti sauce not only fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and make it your own. Each family has its secret twist, and mine includes a pinch of crushed red pepper for that extra kick! So gather your loved ones, prepare to share some laughs, and let’s dive into crafting this delicious sauce that is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.

What You’ll Need for Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Creating a delicious Homemade Spaghetti Sauce starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a pivotal role in building flavor and depth. The core players include juicy tomatoes, flavorful ground beef, and aromatic spices that come together to create a sauce that’s sure to impress. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this delightful dish.

• 1 pound ground beef – The backbone of the sauce, providing a hearty base with its rich flavor. You can also try a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for added depth.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning your meat and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth; onions are a must for any savory sauce.
• 15 ounces tomato sauce – The foundation of your sauce, providing moisture and flavor.
• 6 ounces tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes – Adds a fresh touch to the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that aromatic essence that makes every dish better.
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste – Provides a kick and elevates the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a deep, savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – A pinch of sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 cup water – Adjusts the consistency of the sauce.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, optional – Offers a fresh, vibrant flavor that brightens up the sauce.
• Spaghetti noodles, for serving – The perfect vehicle for your delicious sauce!

How to Make Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Making Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. The best part is, it’s quite simple to make! Follow these easy steps to create a sauce that is sure to become a family favorite.

1. Start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper in a large skillet. This step is critical as it builds the foundation of flavor. You’ll want to see the beef start to brown. Use a meat chopper to break it up into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. This will infuse the beef with a sweet onion flavor. Make sure not to rush this step; it’s essential for developing that deep flavor.

3. Drain the excess grease from the skillet. This helps keep the sauce from becoming too oily, ensuring a rich but not greasy sauce.

4. Next, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and the Italian seasoning. The paste will add a deep tomato flavor while thickening the sauce. Bring it all to a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

5. Add in the dried parsley flakes, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasonings; they will elevate your sauce significantly. The crushed red pepper will add warmth without overwhelming the dish.

6. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and granulated sugar. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

7. Add 1 cup of water to adjust the thickness of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of water. Bring the mixture back to a simmer.

8. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to deepen and develop even further, so don’t skip this! Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

9. If you’re using fresh basil leaves, add them right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can also blend it to your desired consistency.

10. Serve the sauce over your favorite cooked spaghetti noodles. You can garnish with additional basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your homemade creation!

Helpful Notes about Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Making Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is a pleasure, but there are a few tips and tricks that can enhance your experience even further. Here are some helpful notes to keep in mind:

• Storage: This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze this sauce for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This sauce is perfect with spaghetti, but it also works wonderfully with other pastas like fettuccine or penne.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves about five people, but it’s easily doubled for larger gatherings.

What to Serve With Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

When it comes to serving Homemade Spaghetti Sauce, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your dish:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a healthy side that adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Cheese: A generous sprinkle of grated parmesan or mozzarella can elevate the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Wine: For an adult dinner, pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a light red wine to complement the flavors of your sauce.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
• Meal Prep: Great for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and reheated, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Homemade Spaghetti Sauce lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it brings to the table. With fresh ingredients and a little patience, you can create a sauce that will impress your family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t regret the delightful aroma and taste that come from your own kitchen!

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is rich, savory, and made from fresh ingredients. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this sauce brings warmth and flavor to your table. You'll love how simple it is to make!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 5 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Meat Chopper
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Ground beef
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 15 ounces Tomato sauce
• 6 ounces Tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Dried parsley flakes
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• to taste Crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Water
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves optional
• Spaghetti noodles for serving

Instructions

 

• Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, add the beef and chopped onion and brown. Drain excess grease.
• Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, dried parsley flakes, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and granulated sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
• Add water and stir well. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Add chopped basil before serving, if desired.

Notes

• Storage: This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze this sauce for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This sauce is perfect with spaghetti, but it also works wonderfully with other pastas like fettuccine or penne.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves about five people, but it's easily doubled for larger gatherings.

Keyword easy pasta sauce, homemade spaghetti sauce, Italian spaghetti sauce, spaghetti sauce recipe

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.