Janet'S Spaghetti
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce with tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and mushrooms, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving authentic Italian taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a pot.
- Bring to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you're out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick substitute. You can also experiment with different herbs; dried basil or oregano can enhance the taste. For a heartier sauce, adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers works well. This recipe is great for meal prep, making it a perfect candidate for Simple-To-Fix Great Tasting Spaghetti Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete dinner. You can also use it as a base for Italian recipes like lasagna or baked ziti. For a lighter option, consider serving it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Janet'S Spaghetti contains roughly 351 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (148% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 792mg per serving (34% 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, you'll need about 8-10 medium-sized tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, chop, and add them to the pot along with the other ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to allow the sauce to thicken adequately.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian or vegan?
This sauce is already vegetarian, but to make it vegan, ensure that the tomato sauce and paste do not contain any animal products. You can also add lentils or beans for added protein and texture, making it a hearty option for those following vegan recipes.
What can I add to make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also add a dash of hot sauce while it simmers. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level without overpowering the other flavors.
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).