Ida'S Spaghetti Sauce
Ida's Spaghetti Sauce combines savory ground beef, fragrant herbs, and rich tomato flavors, making it a hearty and comforting dish ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the diced onion in butter until onions are done.
- Add the ground beef and cook until well done.
- Add stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the sauce over low heat for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer fresh herbs, substitute the dried oregano and parsley with fresh ones, using three times the amount. You can also mix in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture. This sauce is reminiscent of Italian recipes that emphasize hearty flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ida's Spaghetti Sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside Parmesan Chops or a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
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 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ida'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 1332 calories, with 21g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor may be milder, so you might want to increase the spices slightly to enhance the taste.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of water. This will maintain the richness of the sauce while keeping it meat-free.
What can I add to make it spicier?
For a kick of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference, starting with a small quantity and increasing as desired.
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).