This easy homemade spaghetti sauce is packed with yummy flavors! It uses simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to create a tasty sauce for your noodles.
Making this sauce is a breeze, and I love how my kitchen smells while it simmers. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a cozy dinner that feels special! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its rich flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or even butter if you want. Just keep the taste in mind as it can change the dish slightly.
Onion: A small onion is perfect for this sauce. If you don’t have one, shallots or green onions can work too—just adjust the amount since they have different flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder, but the flavor will be milder. I always love using fresh for the best taste!
Crushed Tomatoes: The crushed tomatoes are key for a rich texture. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can use about 2 pounds of peeled, chopped tomatoes instead. Just remember to cook them longer to break them down.
Herbs: Dried basil and oregano are classic choices, but if you have fresh herbs, feel free to add them. They can enhance the flavor even more. Just remember, fresh herbs are stronger, so use about three times more.
How Do I Make the Sauce Come Together Perfectly?
Creating a delicious spaghetti sauce is all about layering flavors and patience. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Start by heating olive oil in a pan. Make sure it’s hot enough to sautĂ© the onion but not smoking.
- Add the onion first; cook until it’s soft and slightly golden. This helps build the flavor base.
- Next, include garlic, but don’t burn it! Stir for just a minute until fragrant—there’s a fine line here.
- Introduce your crushed tomatoes and sauce. This is where the bulk of your sauce comes from, ensuring a good balance of texture and richness.
- Add in the herbs and spices, along with the sugar. This little bit of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat. It’s important not to rush this step. Letting it cook gently develops deeper flavors.
- Taste the sauce before serving to make any adjustments. Sometimes a little extra salt or a pinch of sugar can make a big difference!
Enjoy your homemade sauce over pasta or use it in other dishes like lasagna or baked ziti!
Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Key Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade spaghetti sauce takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20-30 minutes to simmer, making it a quick and easy option for a weeknight meal. You can have it ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking. This will help to sauté the onion evenly.
2. Sautéing the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir it occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn.
3. Adding Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute. You want to be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can make your sauce taste bitter.
4. Pouring in the Tomatoes:
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and the tomato sauce. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients well.
5. Seasoning the Sauce:
Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. These ingredients will add depth and flavor to your sauce!
6. Simmering:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
7. Tasting and Adjusting:
Before serving, taste the sauce. You may wish to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar depending on your taste preference.
8. Serving:
Serve the hot sauce over cooked spaghetti noodles. If you like, you can garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra splash of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Fresh Tomatoes for Canned Tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh tomatoes, you can substitute about 2 pounds of peeled and chopped tomatoes. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking time to break down into a sauce.
How Long Does This Sauce Last in the Fridge?
This spaghetti sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Freeze Leftover Spaghetti Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce! Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for about 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Add to Enhance the Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! Adding a splash of red wine, sautéed mushrooms, or even bell peppers can add extra depth. Fresh herbs added just before serving also offer a vibrant flavor boost!
