The aroma of simmering tomatoes dances through the air, inviting you to gather around the table. Homemade spaghetti sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and flavor.
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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- How long does homemade spaghetti sauce last?
- Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Remember those lazy Sunday afternoons when the kitchen was filled with laughter and the irresistible scent of bubbling sauce? This recipe takes me back to those moments, promising deliciousness every time it’s served. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals that feel like a hug in a bowl.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy homemade spaghetti sauce brings authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen without fuss
- It’s simple enough for weeknight cooking yet impressive enough for special occasions
- The vibrant colors and rich aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to pair with various dishes or enjoy on its own with bread
I remember my friend’s eyes lighting up when she tasted this sauce for the first time; she declared it “the best thing ever.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Whole Tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes; they provide the base flavor for your sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves; their pungent aroma will elevate your sauce.
- Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; chop it finely so it blends beautifully into the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; its fruity notes will enhance the overall flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Adds brightness; tear the leaves instead of chopping them to release their essential oils.
- Dried Oregano: This herb lends an authentic Italian taste; sprinkle generously but don’t overdo it!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to achieve perfection.
- A pinch of Sugar: Balances acidity in tomatoes; you’ll hardly notice it but will taste the difference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, releasing a sweet aroma.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic turns bitter!
Pour in Tomatoes: Add canned whole tomatoes (crush them slightly) along with their juices into the pot. Stir well while watching that beautiful red color come alive.
Seasoning Time: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, dried oregano, and sugar. Let everything simmer together on low heat for about 20 minutes until thickened.
Basil Bliss: Right before serving, stir in fresh basil leaves. The warmth will release their fragrance into your sauce—heavenly!
Tasting Test: Always taste before serving! Adjust seasoning if necessary to find that perfect balance of flavors.
Enjoy this vibrant homemade spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta or use it as a base for other dishes!
You Must Know
- Homemade spaghetti sauce is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas
- The rich flavors develop beautifully over time, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sauté onions and garlic first, then add tomatoes and herbs. This sequence maximizes flavor infusion and ensures a well-balanced sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in fresh herbs or even add a splash of red wine for depth. Customize it based on your taste preferences!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain its delightful flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor; they make a world of difference
- Don’t rush simmering—allow time for flavors to blend beautifully
- Lastly, taste as you go; adjust seasoning according to your preference
Sharing this homemade spaghetti sauce recipe brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and love. Everyone always asked for seconds, proving it was a hit!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be delicious but require more prep time.
How long does homemade spaghetti sauce last?
Stored properly, it can last up to five days in the fridge.
Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
Yes! It freezes well in airtight containers for up to three months.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Delight in this easy homemade spaghetti sauce, bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- Canned whole tomatoes
- Fresh garlic
- Onion
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Sugar
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Pour in canned tomatoes, crushing them slightly, and stir well.
- Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and sugar. Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving to enhance the aroma and flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
