ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This creates a delicious base for your sauce.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. The tomato paste helps thicken the sauce and gives it a rich, deep flavor. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, blend them before adding to the pan, or crush them lightly with a spoon once added to the sauce.
3. Add Liquid and Seasonings
Pour in the water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor) and stir to combine. Add the sugar (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well mixed.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will develop, so feel free to let it go longer for a more intense taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust
Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, taste it and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar to balance the acidity, or more herbs if you prefer a stronger flavor.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once the sauce is ready, serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Why This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is So Delicious
The combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a bit of sugar creates a sauce that is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The olive oil and garlic give the sauce depth, while the dried herbs like basil and oregano bring out the traditional Italian flavor profile we all love. Whether served with spaghetti, lasagna, or on top of meatballs, this sauce adds a rich, homemade touch to any dish.
Tips for the Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you have fresh, ripe tomatoes on hand, use them in place of canned tomatoes. You’ll need about 10 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Blanching the tomatoes first can make peeling them easier.
- Let It Simmer: The key to a flavorful sauce is letting it simmer slowly. The longer it cooks, the more intense and concentrated the flavors will become. Don’t rush the process!
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot, or transfer it to a blender after cooking.
- Add Red Wine for Extra Flavor: For an extra layer of depth, add a splash of red wine while the sauce is simmering. It pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and enhances the overall taste.
- Add Meat: To make a meat sauce, brown some ground beef, pork, or Italian sausage in the pan before adding the onions and garlic. Let the meat cook until browned, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
- Make It Ahead: Homemade spaghetti sauce tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is a simple, flavorful, and healthy alternative to store-bought versions. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a rich, aromatic sauce that brings a burst of authentic Italian flavor to any pasta dish. Whether you prefer a classic marinara or a meat sauce, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta night with a homemade touch!
ADVERTISEMENT
