Aunt Lucy'S Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce featuring ground hamburger, fresh celery, and onions simmered with tomato paste, tomato juice, and mushrooms. This classic dish offers rich, savory flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, served over your favorite spaghetti noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger, celery, and onion until done.
- Drain the mixture.
- Add tomato paste, tomato juice, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and drained mushrooms to the cooked mixture.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce significantly. This sauce can also be used in dishes like Sally'S Easy Lasagne for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Lucy's Spaghetti Sauce over al dente spaghetti noodles for a classic dish. Complement the meal with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete dining experience. This sauce goes well with a glass of red wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish. For a twist, try it as a base for Kathy'S Cavatini or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help restore the sauce's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lucy'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 352 calories, with 13g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (147% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2665mg per serving (116% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
What can I substitute for tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of water to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
Is there a way to make this sauce spicier?
Certainly! You can add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce while it simmers for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference, and taste as you go to find the right balance.
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).