Traditional Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful traditional Italian spaghetti sauce rich with sausage, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan.
- Add minced garlic and stir.
- Add sausage and brown thoroughly.
- Add chopped onion and diced tomatoes, then stir and cook for 4 minutes.
- Mix in red wine, tomato paste, and sugar.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh oregano and remove from heat.
- Serve over cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausage. Fresh herbs can be swapped for dried—use one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the sauce's depth. Serve over your favorite pasta or try it with Marie'S Pasta Salad for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
This traditional spaghetti sauce pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Italian Sausage And Pasta Bake. A glass of red wine can complement the flavors of the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Traditional Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 653 calories, with 13g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% 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, you can certainly use canned tomatoes for convenience. Opt for high-quality, whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes, and adjust the cooking time slightly since they are already cooked. Just remember to drain any excess liquid if using diced canned tomatoes to avoid a watery sauce.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. You can also add lentils or beans for protein. Ensure to check that the tomato paste and other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving, making it a perfect option for meal prep or gatherings.
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).