Diving into the world of homemade spaghetti sauce can transform your pasta nights from mundane to magical. This recipe, centered around tomato sauce, is your ticket to a rich, flavorful dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- It starts with a base of tomato sauce, ensuring a smooth, rich texture that clings perfectly to pasta.
- The addition of fresh herbs and spices brings depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Simmering the sauce slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmony that’s hard to resist.
- It’s versatile! Easily adjustable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for batch cooking, this sauce freezes well, making future meals a breeze.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup water
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. The tomato paste adds richness and body to the sauce, ensuring it coats your pasta beautifully.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Add the sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while the herbs and spices infuse the sauce with irresistible aromas.
Step 4: Simmer to Develop Flavors
Stir in the water to reach your desired consistency. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. Your perfect spaghetti sauce is now ready to toss with cooked pasta.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, consider browning a pound of ground beef or Italian sausage before adding the onions. Vegetarians can add mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. Always use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, you can reduce the simmering time, but keep in mind that the flavors won’t be as developed. Freezing portions of this sauce can save you time on busy nights; just thaw and reheat when needed.
Recipe Variations
- Meat Lovers’ Version: Add browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs to the sauce for a protein-packed meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a veggie-loaded sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for those who like it hot.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Wine-Infused: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the tomato products for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce? Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed, to replace the canned tomato sauce. Simmer them down until they reach a saucy consistency.
How can I make this sauce gluten-free? This sauce is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free pasta. Always check the labels on your tomato sauce and paste to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
Can I make this sauce in advance? Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Summary
This homemade spaghetti sauce using tomato sauce is a game-changer for pasta lovers. Rich, flavorful, and versatile, it’s perfect for elevating your weeknight dinners. With options to customize and tips to make it your own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.