Baked Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty baked spaghetti sauce featuring savory ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and Italian herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and stir ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic powder until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato soup, undrained mushrooms, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce's flavor. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can increase nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Spaghetti Sauce over your favorite cooked spaghetti noodles and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad pairs nicely to complete the meal. For a twist, try using this sauce as a filling for Italian recipes like Lasagne Rolls for a delightful dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked Spaghetti Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. This sauce also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 328 calories, with 10g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (87% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat on the stove before serving, and it’ll taste even better!
What can I add to make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce while cooking. Another option is to mix in some hot Italian sausage with the ground beef for a spicy kick.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes can add a vibrant flavor to your sauce. You'll need about 2-3 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to simmer them longer to achieve the desired consistency.
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).