Italian Spaghetti Gravy
A rich, savory Italian spaghetti gravy with bold tomato flavors, herbs, and butter, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with meatballs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a large saucepan.
- Cook slowly for at least 1 hour.
- Add prepared meatballs to the sauce.
- Simmer until meatballs are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the gravy. If you prefer fresh herbs, substitute 1 Tbsp. of fresh basil and oregano for the dried versions. You can also use crushed tomatoes instead of puree for a chunkier texture. Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Spaghetti Gravy over al dente spaghetti for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh salad. For a delightful twist, try serving it with Oven Baked Spaghetti for a comforting casserole variation. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spaghetti gravy 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, simmer gently on the stove or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Spaghetti Gravy contains roughly 1409 calories, with 48g protein, 359g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (768% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 215g 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 tomato puree?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 12-14 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and crushed. Simmer them longer to achieve the desired consistency, as fresh tomatoes have more water content.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian-friendly?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit any meat added to the sauce. You can enhance the flavor with additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even add some lentils for protein.
What type of meatballs should I use?
Homemade or store-bought meatballs work well. For traditional flavors, opt for beef or a mix of beef and pork. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken meatballs are great too, or try vegetarian meatballs for a meat-free 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).