Betty'S Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce with ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a rich homemade taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain grease.
- Add remaining ingredients and stir as mixture comes to a boil.
- Turn heat down and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or simmer longer. Adding a splash of red wine can enhance the depth of flavor. This sauce is versatile and can be used in dishes like Family Style Lasagna or as a base for other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, and top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed shells or as a base for Sharon'S Favorite Lasagna for a delightful twist.
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, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 658 calories, with 19g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (188% of the Daily Value), and calcium (143% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2164mg per serving (94% 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?
Yes, this spaghetti sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It's often even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or use lentils for protein. Additionally, opt for vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor without meat.
How can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
To increase the spice level, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of pepper or omit it entirely, ensuring it suits your taste preferences.
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).