Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
A rich, flavorful homemade spaghetti sauce featuring ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onions, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this versatile sauce can be customized with cooked meat for added heartiness and serves as a comforting accompaniment to pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute diced onions in olive oil until limp.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add cooked meat, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, or add a splash of red wine while simmering. If you're low on Italian seasonings, dried basil and oregano can work as substitutes. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a pinch of sugar or grated carrot. Remember, this sauce is versatile; you can use it for Penne All'Arrabbiata or as a base for other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade spaghetti sauce over al dente spaghetti or use it as a flavorful base for Tortellini Salad. It also pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked meat such as ground beef or sausage directly into the sauce before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 145 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% 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 vegan?
Absolutely! This spaghetti sauce is naturally vegan-friendly. Simply omit any meat you might consider adding, and feel free to enhance the flavor with more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
How can I thicken my spaghetti sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve your desired consistency.
What should I serve with spaghetti sauce?
A classic choice is spaghetti, but you can also serve it with other types of pasta, like penne or fettuccine. For a lighter option, consider zucchini noodles. Garlic bread and a crisp salad make excellent sides to complement the meal.
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).