The aroma of simmering tomatoes fills the air as you imagine stirring a pot of homemade spaghetti sauce. You can almost hear the joyous laughter of family and friends gathered around your table, ready to dig in.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make It Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
- What type of tomatoes should I use?
- How long does the sauce need to simmer?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As the flavors meld together, you recall countless evenings spent in the kitchen with loved ones, sharing stories and savoring every bite. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy homemade spaghetti sauce is full of rich flavor; it elevates any pasta dish into a gourmet feast
- You can whip this up in under an hour without breaking a sweat
- The vibrant red color and fresh ingredients make it visually stunning on any plate
- Perfect for family dinners or cozy date nights at home!
I’ll never forget my cousin’s face when she took her first bite of this spaghetti sauce. It was pure bliss; she declared it “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor and richness of the sauce.
- Onion: Use a medium onion; it adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic delivers bold flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic ingredient.
- Canned Whole Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their sweetness and low acidity; they’re perfect for sauces.
- Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce while intensifying the tomato flavor; just a couple of tablespoons will do.
- Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb; it adds warmth and earthiness to your spaghetti sauce.
- Dried Basil: For that quintessential Italian taste; use fresh if available for an even brighter flavor.
- Sugar: A pinch balances acidity; trust me, it makes a world of difference in flavor!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together; adjust to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large saucepan over medium heat, pour about two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add one finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Toss in three minced garlic cloves until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds.
Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Pour in two cans (28 oz each) of whole tomatoes along with two tablespoons of tomato paste. Use a wooden spoon to break up those tomatoes as they bubble away.
Season Your Sauce: Sprinkle in one teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. Add one teaspoon of sugar along with salt and pepper to taste; stir well to combine.
Let It Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let your sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until thickened—don’t you love that sound?
Taste Test Time!: Once done, give your sauce a taste. Adjust seasoning if needed—more salt? More basil? It’s your masterpiece!
This homemade spaghetti sauce will transform any pasta into something truly special! Serve over your favorite noodles or use as pizza sauce—the possibilities are endless!
You Must Know
- This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe not only fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas but also invites creativity
- You can personalize it according to your taste, making each batch unique
- The rich texture and vibrant flavors make it a family favorite, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and herbs. Simmer for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use canned San Marzano tomatoes which are sweeter and less acidic
- Always taste your sauce while cooking to adjust seasoning as needed
- A splash of red wine can elevate the depth of flavor significantly
Cooking homemade spaghetti sauce is a cherished family tradition for me; I still remember the first time my grandmother taught me how to make it from scratch.
FAQ
Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
Yes, freeze in portions for easy use later; just thaw before reheating.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for authentic flavor and sweetness in your sauce.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
Simmer for at least 30 minutes or longer for deeper flavor development.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful homemade spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) San Marzano whole tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste, breaking up the tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
- Season with oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg