Erins Spaghetti Sauce
Erins Spaghetti Sauce is a hearty, flavorful blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and herbs, perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook, drain, and rinse the ground beef in a colander under hot water, then return it to the pan.
- Chop the onions, green pepper, and garlic, then cook until the onions soften.
- Add a small amount of water if needed to prevent sticking, and cook the vegetables with the beef.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, basil (if needed), sugar (if tomatoes are very acid), and parsley to taste.
- Add the tomatoes, stir, and simmer partially covered for 2 hours to all day.
- Add tomato paste just enough to prevent red water from running all over the plate.
- The sauce freezes well and gets better each time you warm it up.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried, just adjust the quantities accordingly. If you find the sauce too acidic, adding a teaspoon of sugar can balance the flavors nicely, especially if using fresh tomatoes. This sauce is versatile and can also be used in dishes like Nanny'S Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a hearty option, consider serving it alongside Ma Hoff'S Meatballs or as a base for Stuffed Jumbo Shells for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Erins Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 68 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 8g 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well in this recipe. Opt for whole or diced tomatoes, and adjust the quantity according to your preference. Canned tomatoes are often more convenient and can provide a consistent flavor in your sauce. Just be sure to drain excess liquid if using diced tomatoes to prevent a watery sauce.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add a kick to your sauce, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking the onions and peppers. You can also experiment with spicy Italian sausage in place of some of the ground beef for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the spice level to your taste preferences for a perfect balance.
What can I serve with spaghetti sauce?
In addition to spaghetti, this sauce can be paired with various pasta shapes, polenta, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. For a complete meal, serve with sides like garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. It also makes a great filling for lasagna or as a base for beef recipes like Steak Pizzaola.
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).