Old-Fashion Italian Spaghetti Sauce
A rich, hearty Italian spaghetti sauce blending tomato-based flavors with garlic, basil, and a touch of sugar, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add together in a 2-quart saucepan the Ragu sauce, tomato paste, and tomato puree. Cook on low heat.
- Stir until the paste blends in.
- Add garlic powder, basil leaves, pepper, sugar, and olive oil.
- Stir constantly until blended. Reduce heat to simmer for 3 hours.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during cooking. If you prefer a fresher taste, use fresh basil instead of dried; just double the amount. If garlic powder isn't available, fresh minced garlic works well too. Adjust the sugar to taste, especially if using sweeter tomatoes. This sauce also makes a great base for other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty sauce over spaghetti for a classic meal, or try it with Ziti Sauce for a delightful twist. It pairs beautifully with grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread. A refreshing Low-Salt Italian Salad complements the dish nicely, adding a crisp contrast to the rich sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until hot. Adding a splash of water can help restore the sauce's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashion Italian Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 326 calories, with 6g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 10g 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat gently before serving.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegan?
Yes, this sauce can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the Ragu sauce and any added ingredients are free from animal products. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this Old-Fashion Italian Spaghetti Sauce.
What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
For additional depth, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. You could also include crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like oregano for a fragrant touch. Each addition will enhance the sauce's overall flavor.
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).