Spaghetti Sauce For 100 People
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce with rich tomato and herb notes, perfect for large gatherings or family dinners. Combines savory meat and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute 1/2 cup olive oil and 1 cup chopped onion in a pan.
- Place the sautéed mixture in the bottom of a Nesco or slow cooker.
- Brown 10 lb. meatballs or 3 lb. ground pork and 7 lb. ground beef, if used.
- Add the browned meat or meatballs to the Nesco.
- Add the rest of the ingredients except spaghetti noodles to the Nesco.
- Simmer the sauce for 4 to 5 hours.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Cook 12 lb. spaghetti noodles according to package directions before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you prefer a meatless option, substitute the meat with diced mushrooms or lentils for a vegan version. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for extra aroma. Adjust the salt and spices to taste, especially if you are using canned ingredients that may already contain salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti noodles, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For variety, consider serving it with Angel Hair Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce or alongside Marinated Chicken Breast to add protein to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water for the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce For 100 People contains roughly 1568 calories, with 66g protein, 346g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (230% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (159% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2336mg per serving (102% 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 prepare this spaghetti sauce in advance?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld over time, making it even tastier when reheated.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider using a combination of chopped mushrooms and lentils to maintain the hearty texture while keeping it plant-based.
How spicy is this spaghetti sauce?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you prefer some heat. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste for the perfect balance.
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).