Aunt Betty'S Nephew'S Famous Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce packed with rich tomato flavors, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from sugar. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this classic dish offers a comforting taste of home that pairs beautifully with pasta and fresh bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion and garlic in a skillet.
- Add the lean ground meat and cook until browned.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, then add 1 to 1 1/2 cans of water.
- Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce well and cook for two hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano in your sauce. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Adjust the sugar based on the acidity of your tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the mixture before simmering. This sauce pairs well with a side of Bruschetta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Italian Spinach for a nutritious side. For a complete dinner, consider serving a fresh salad alongside. Leftover sauce can be used in lasagna or as a base for Mamma Mia Basic Pizza Dough for a delicious homemade pizza.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Betty'S Nephew'S Famous Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 359 calories, with 24g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1999mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce and paste?
Yes, you can substitute canned crushed or diced tomatoes for the tomato sauce and paste. Just ensure to adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. This will give your sauce a chunky texture and a fresh tomato flavor.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onion and garlic. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick, tailoring the spiciness to your preference.
What type of meat works best in this recipe?
Lean ground beef is traditional, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider a mix of meats, such as pork and beef, or even add Italian sausage for added depth and spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).