Aunt Nona'S Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce with rich tomato and garlic notes, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings, showcasing a classic Italian-American taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add crushed garlic cloves to the meat and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste cans, water, and red pepper.
- Simmer the sauce very slowly for a couple of hours or longer, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you're out of tomato paste, crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute, but adjust the water accordingly. For a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can enhance the sauce. This recipe can also be made vegetarian by replacing the hamburger with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over al dente pasta for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh salad. For a twist, try using the sauce as a base for Lasagna Without Noodles or as a topping for Homemade Deep Dish Pizza. Grated Parmesan or fresh basil can add the perfect finishing touch.
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 five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nona'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 860 calories, with 17g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1622mg per serving (71% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger in this spaghetti sauce. It will provide a lighter flavor and lower fat content. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey tends to be milder. The cooking process remains the same, ensuring a delicious outcome.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
Simmering the sauce for at least two hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if time permits, letting it simmer longer will deepen the taste significantly. Just be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer, the better for a rich, hearty sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Adding diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the sauce. Sauté the vegetables with the garlic after browning the meat for a delicious addition. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables.
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).