Shortcut Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, offering rich flavors in a convenient slow-cooker method.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef along with chopped small onion; drain.
- In a crock-pot, combine spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes, and cooked ground beef mixture.
- Add salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and sugar; stir well.
- Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
- Serve over cooked and drained spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-chopped onions or frozen diced onions. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. This sauce also works well for Italian recipes like Italian Meatballs And Spaghetti Sauce, providing a rich and hearty base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. It pairs well with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables or serving alongside Italian Beef And Noodles. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between bursts. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shortcut Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 1225 calories, with 44g protein, 288g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (422% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for added flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey is a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef. Just remember to start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you'll need about 2 pounds. Blanch them to remove the skins, chop, and add them to the sauce. Fresh tomatoes will give a different taste and texture, so adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they break down nicely.
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).