Red Macaroni Sauce
A hearty and flavorful red macaroni sauce featuring tomato puree, crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, wine, and seasonings. Smooth and rich, it pairs perfectly with pasta for a comforting meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the sauce in a crock-pot on low overnight or cook on top of the stove for 4 to 5 hours.
- Stir often during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil along with the crushed garlic. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the water or add more tomato paste. A splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the sweetness, while using red wine adds depth. If you're out of tomato paste, you can substitute with an equal amount of tomato sauce, though the consistency may vary.
Serving Suggestions
This Red Macaroni Sauce pairs beautifully with Barb'S Pasta Salad for a delightful meal. Serve it over your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for homemade pizzas. Complement with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Green Bean Side Dish for a complete dinner. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the flavors even further.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in portions, which can last up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Macaroni Sauce contains roughly 168 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% 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 definitely use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, use about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and chopped. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This Red Macaroni Sauce is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. You can enjoy it guilt-free, and it pairs well with various vegan pasta options. Just ensure the wine used is vegan-friendly, as some wines may use animal-derived fining agents.
How can I make this sauce spicy?
To add some heat to your Red Macaroni Sauce, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. Adjust the amount to your spice preference. Another option is to use a spicy Italian sausage in place of the garlic for a flavorful kick!
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).