Macaroni Sauce
A hearty, rich tomato sauce with fresh basil and savory meats, perfect for comforting pasta dishes and ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the tomatoes in a large saucepan.
- Bring the tomatoes to a boil, then crush them and let it boil uncovered for about 40 minutes.
- Add drippings from Meatballs and Sausage along with the meat, and let boil for another 30 minutes with the meat.
- At the same time, add basil (about 3 to 4 leaves or 1 teaspoon dry), and salt.
- Add the tomato paste with water and sugar, then bring to a boil for another 40 minutes, stirring often.
- Skim the sauce if necessary and serve with your favorite pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using San Marzano tomatoes instead of standard plum tomatoes. Adding a splash of red wine during the boiling process can enhance the sauce's depth. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of basil or use fresh basil instead of dry. You can also substitute the sugar with honey or a pinch of baking soda to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta, such as elbow macaroni or penne. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, like a classic Caesar or even Frank's Famous Spaghetti Salad, for a complete meal. Grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious finish, and crusty garlic bread is a perfect side.
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 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Gently heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Sauce contains roughly 179 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (172% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1917mg per serving (83% 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! About 4 to 5 pounds of ripe tomatoes should work, but remember to blanch and peel them first. Fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to achieve the desired consistency, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when adding the basil. For a smoky flavor, consider using hot Italian sausage drippings instead of regular ones. Adjust the spice to your preference for the best results.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat drippings and replace them with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar, making it a hearty vegetarian dish.
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).