Spaghetti Sauce(The Very Best!)
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce packed with fresh tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich, savory, and customizable.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut onions, hot peppers, celery, and mangoes in a chopper and add to tomato juice.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat.
- Add 8 cans of 12-ounce tomato paste.
- Simmer to bring to a boil, about 1 hour.
- Can and seal the sauce once ready.
- The sauce is done when a large spoon stands alone in the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, consider blending the tomatoes before cooking. You can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic if needed. If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of hot peppers or use a milder variety. For a vegan version, ensure your cooking oil is plant-based and skip any non-vegan ingredients. This sauce also works well with a variety of Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this robust spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs beautifully with Italian Style Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread and a side of steamed vegetables. This sauce is also excellent for use in dishes like lasagna or as a base for pizza.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to six months. When reheating, gently warm the sauce on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce(The Very Best!) contains roughly 1325 calories, with 14g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (189% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2219mg per serving (96% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used in place of fresh tomatoes for convenience. Opt for whole or crushed tomatoes, and adjust the seasoning as needed, since canned varieties may have added salt or sugar. Aim for about 10-12 cups of canned tomatoes to match the volume of a 1/2 bushel of fresh tomatoes.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
If you find the sauce too sweet, reduce the amount of sugar added or balance it with additional salt or acidity, such as a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Taste as you cook to achieve the desired flavor profile, allowing the sauce to simmer to meld the ingredients together.
Can I make this sauce spicy?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, add more hot peppers or include a pinch of red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce as it simmers to ensure it reaches your preferred spice level. You can also experiment with spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor profile if desired.
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).