Herbed Spaghetti Sauce
A flavorful herbed spaghetti sauce with ground beef, garlic, and aromatic herbs, perfect for hearty family dinners and versatile pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Crush dried herbs (oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme) and add them to the skillet.
- Add tomato soup, tomato sauce, drained mushroom pieces, and crushed herbs to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using fresh herbs instead of dried, adjusting quantities accordingly. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. Adding a splash of red wine during simmering can enhance depth. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this herbed spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or penne, and top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with Ashley'S Spaghetti Pie, which complements the sauce perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 99 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 9g 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, about 2-3 cups of diced fresh tomatoes can replace the canned tomato soup and sauce. Just be sure to add a bit of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency.
What can I serve with this spaghetti sauce?
This sauce is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with a classic Caesar salad or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy it alongside Italian Meat Balls And Spaghetti Sauce for a hearty feast.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking the onions and garlic. You can also stir in a splash of hot sauce or add freshly ground black pepper to taste for a kick.
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).