When the aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs wafts through your kitchen, you know it’s time for homemade spaghetti sauce. This is not just any sauce; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those cozy nights in or when you need to impress your dinner guests without breaking a sweat. As that rich red sauce bubbles away, you’re about to embark on a culinary journey that will make your taste buds sing and your heart dance with joy.
Picture this: It’s Sunday afternoon, and the family gathers around the table, laughter echoing off the walls as plates are filled with steaming pasta topped with your delicious homemade spaghetti sauce. You can practically hear the angels singing as everyone digs in, their faces lighting up with delight. This sauce isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory creator, ideal for family gatherings or an intimate dinner date. Get ready to dive into flavor town!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This homemade spaghetti sauce is easy to whip up and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor impact
- The rich, robust flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its vibrant color makes it visually appealing on any plate
- Perfect for pasta but versatile enough to use on pizzas or as a base for casseroles
I still remember the first time I made this spaghetti sauce; my friends devoured it faster than I could say “mamma mia!” Their compliments made me feel like a culinary genius.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Whole Tomatoes: Choose high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are my go-to choice.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic brings aromatic goodness; don’t skimp here—more is always merrier.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness and flavor; it’s liquid gold in the culinary world.
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Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that elevates flavors; fresh oregano can work too if you have it on hand.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
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Fresh Basil: Add at the end for a burst of freshness; nothing beats freshly torn basil leaves.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Chop your onion finely and mince the garlic cloves until fragrant. Set everything aside because we’re about to create magic.
Sauté Those Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, stirring until they become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.
Add Garlic and Spices: Toss in minced garlic along with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté until fragrant—around 1 minute—as burnt garlic has no place in our heavenly sauce.
Tomato Time: Pour in those canned whole tomatoes along with their juices. Use a spoon to break them up slightly as they bubble away toward perfection.
Simmer Away: Reduce heat to low and let your sauce simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally while anticipating that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
Add Fresh Basil: Just before serving, mix in freshly torn basil leaves for an explosion of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary because we want this sauce to be unforgettable!
Now you’re ready to serve up this delightful homemade spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta! Whether you’re twirling spaghetti on a fork or slathering it over zoodles, this sauce promises satisfaction each time.
This homemade spaghetti sauce isn’t just food; it’s an experience packed with memories waiting to happen! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This homemade spaghetti sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic hug in a bowl
- You can easily tailor it to your taste, using fresh herbs or extra garlic
- The bubbling aroma will transport you right to an Italian kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your tomatoes and simmer. This ensures maximum flavor infusion and reduces cooking time for pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out canned tomatoes for fresh ones or add red pepper flakes for heat. Personalizing this sauce makes it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to keep the flavors intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, and don’t rush the simmering process
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go for a personalized touch
- Fresh herbs added at the end brighten the sauce wonderfully
Sharing this homemade spaghetti sauce recipe with my family always brings smiles and memories of Sunday dinners together. It’s a simple dish that creates lasting connections.
FAQ
What type of tomatoes should I use for homemade spaghetti sauce?
Using San Marzano tomatoes delivers a rich flavor that’s perfect for sauces.
Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
Yes, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to three months without losing quality.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
For best results, simmer your sauce for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of homemade spaghetti sauce that will transport you straight to Italy. This rich, aromatic sauce blends succulent canned tomatoes with fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests. Easy to prepare, it’s a timeless classic that will fill your kitchen with delicious scents and your heart with joy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 28 oz canned whole tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; sauté for 1 minute.
- Tomato time: Pour in canned tomatoes with their juices; break them up slightly with a spoon.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with basil: Stir in freshly torn basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (125g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
