Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This homemade spaghetti sauce is rich, flavorful, and easy to make from scratch. Using simple ingredients, it delivers a comforting and vibrant tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with any pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this sauce will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 cup water (or vegetable broth)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
5. Step 5: Pour in crushed tomatoes and water (or broth), stirring to combine.
6. Step 6: Season with Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
7. Step 7: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Step 8: Add fresh basil, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes before turning off the heat.
9. Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve over your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.
• Add a splash of red wine before simmering for extra depth of flavor.
• Swap fresh basil with dried basil if needed, using about 1 teaspoon instead.
• Include diced bell peppers or mushrooms during the onion sauté for added texture and flavor.
• Omit red pepper flakes to keep the sauce mild, or increase for more heat.

Storage

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes should be peeled, seeded, and crushed before use. Keep in mind that canned San Marzano tomatoes provide consistent flavor and texture, making the sauce more reliable.

How can I make this sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer time to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also add more tomato paste at the start or stir in a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese at the end for richness and thickness.

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 cups (serves 4-6) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This homemade spaghetti sauce is a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce made from crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a blend of Italian seasonings. Slow-simmered to develop deep, savory flavors, this sauce is perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta dishes, delivering an authentic Italian taste right from your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat to prepare the base for cooking the aromatics.
2. Sauté onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and translucent, which helps release their natural sweetness.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant to avoid burning and bring out its aroma.
4. Cook tomato paste: Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to deepen the flavor and reduce its acidity.
5. Add tomatoes and liquid: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with water or vegetable broth and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Season the sauce: Add Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to distribute the spices throughout the sauce.
7. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Add basil: Stir in the fresh chopped basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes to infuse its fresh aroma into the sauce.
9. Adjust and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm over your favorite cooked pasta.

Notes

• Using San Marzano tomatoes enhances the sauce’s flavor and texture.
• Simmering the sauce longer will intensify its flavor but avoid reducing it too much to prevent dryness.
• Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• For a smoother sauce, blend partially or fully with an immersion blender before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: spaghetti sauce, homemade tomato sauce, Italian sauce, pasta sauce, easy marinara sauce, San Marzano tomatoes, vegetarian sauce