Simple Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce packed with savory ground beef, fragrant garlic and onions, and a spicy kick from cayenne and chili peppers. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it simmers slowly to develop rich flavors, served generously over al dente spaghetti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet, then drain and set aside.
- Saute onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Mix the cooked meat, sautéed onions and garlic, canned sauce, canned mushrooms, seasonings, and let simmer for at least an hour or use a crock-pot.
- Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. If you want more heat, increase the cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more mushrooms or lentils as a protein source.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce over al dente spaghetti for a classic meal, and top with freshly grated parmesan for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Auntie Mickey'S Italian Stuffed Peppers or a side of garlic bread. A simple green salad can complement the dish nicely, adding freshness to the meal.
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 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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 sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped, can replace the canned sauce. Cook them down until saucy, then follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make the sauce vegetarian, simply omit the hamburger and replace it with chopped mushrooms or lentils for added texture and protein. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor.
What can I do if the sauce is too spicy?
If the sauce turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or honey. Additionally, stirring in some cream or coconut milk can help mellow the spiciness.
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).