Description
Rich, flavorful homemade spaghetti sauce made with simple ingredients. Perfect for pasta, lasagna, or meal prep. Easy, customizable, and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 2 cans (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup water or broth
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef or sausage (if using) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water or broth. Mix well.
- Season with sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bring sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove bay leaf, adjust seasonings to taste, and serve hot over pasta.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after cooking.
- If too acidic, add a pinch more sugar or a splash of heavy cream.
- Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick weeknight meals.
- Use fresh herbs at the end of cooking for a brighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes