Introduction

This classic homemade spaghetti sauce recipe is our family favorite for good reason—it’s simple, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with pantry staples and simmered to perfection, it pairs beautifully with pasta or can be used in dishes like Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing sauce that everyone will love.

Ingredients

This rich, aromatic sauce fills your kitchen with the comforting scents of garlic, fresh basil, and simmering tomatoes.

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
• 2 tbsp garlic, minced
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded, divided
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This homemade spaghetti sauce comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes while still developing deep, robust flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all fresh ingredients including ripe tomatoes, plenty of fresh garlic, onions, and fresh herbs like basil and oregano. Proper preparation ensures a smooth cooking process for your homemade spaghetti sauce.

Step 2 — Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3 — Cook Ground Meat

If using meat, add ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until thoroughly browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat before proceeding to maintain the sauce’s fresh tomato flavor.

Step 4 — Add Tomato Base

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and fresh chopped tomatoes. The combination creates the robust foundation of your homemade spaghetti sauce. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.

Step 5 — Season and Simmer

Add fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

For deeper flavor development, let the sauce simmer for 2-3 hours. The sauce is ready when it has thickened significantly and the oil rises to the surface.

Step 6 — Adjust Consistency

If your sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water or broth. For a thicker sauce, continue simmering uncovered until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning Adjustments

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs. Stir in fresh basil at the end for maximum flavor. The robust flavors should be well-balanced and pronounced.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the sauce rest off heat for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly and makes our family favorite homemade spaghetti sauce even more delicious.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	7g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	480mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — A leaner protein option that still absorbs the robust garlic and tomato flavors beautifully.
• Lentils or Mushrooms — A hearty, plant-based alternative that provides a satisfying, meaty texture.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) — A fresh, low-carb swap that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
• Spaghetti Squash — A naturally gluten-free and lower-carb base with a slightly sweet flavor.
• Nutritional Yeast — A dairy-free option to add a cheesy, savory note when sprinkled on top.
• Low-Sodium Broth & No-Salt-Added Tomatoes — Reduces sodium while letting the fresh tomato and garlic shine.
• Whole Wheat or Legume-Based Pasta — An easy gluten-free or higher-fiber alternative to traditional pasta.
• Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream — Creates a creamy, dairy-free version of the sauce without overpowering the tomato base.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this homemade spaghetti sauce over classic spaghetti for a traditional Italian dinner.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to complement the robust garlic and tomato flavors.
• Perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or casual weeknight meals.
• Try it with meatballs or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• For a lighter option, serve over zucchini noodles or with a side of roasted vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation.

This versatile sauce also works wonderfully in baked pasta dishes like lasagna or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using canned tomato products with added citric acid or calcium chloride. Fix: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes with only tomatoes and salt to allow the fresh tomato flavor to shine.
• Mistake: Not cooking the tomato paste long enough before adding liquids. Fix: Sauté the tomato paste with your aromatics for 2-3 minutes to caramelize it, which deepens the robust flavors.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan with garlic at the start. Fix: Add minced garlic towards the end of sautéing your onions to prevent it from burning and turning bitter.
• Mistake: Simmering the sauce for too short a time. Fix: Let the sauce bubble gently for at least 45-60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and concentrate properly.
• Mistake: Adding dried herbs at the very end of cooking. Fix: Stir in dried herbs like oregano early in the simmering process so their flavors have time to infuse the entire sauce.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of salting the pasta water adequately. Fix: Use water as salty as the sea to season the pasta from within, ensuring it complements your homemade spaghetti sauce.
• Mistake: Using lean ground beef that lacks fat for flavor. Fix: Choose ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) to create a richer, more flavorful meat base for your sauce.
• Mistake: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving. Fix: Always do a final taste test and adjust salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity and perfect the flavor profile.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your homemade spaghetti sauce in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months for the best fresh tomato flavor.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 165°F for food safety.

This robust sauce holds up beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy families.

Conclusion

We hope you love our family favorite Homemade Spaghetti Sauce as much as we do! If you try it, please leave a comment or rating. For another comforting pasta dish, check out our Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this spaghetti sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this sauce in advance. Our family favorite Homemade Spaghetti Sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.

How can I adjust the garlic flavor in the sauce?

You can easily adjust the garlic to your taste. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount or sauté the garlic briefly. For a more intense, robust flavor, add extra minced garlic or a pinch of garlic powder at the end of cooking.

What is the best way to get a fresh tomato flavor?

Using high-quality, ripe tomatoes is key. For the freshest taste, use peeled, fresh Roma or San Marzano tomatoes when they are in season. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper, more concentrated fresh tomato flavor in your sauce.