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Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce recipe delivers a rich, authentic Italian tomato sauce packed with fresh herbs and pantry staples, ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s versatile to use on pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce, and easily customizable to suit various dietary preferences and spice levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Pinch of sugar
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping one medium onion and mincing 3-4 garlic cloves. Having everything ready ahead will keep the cooking process quick and smooth.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This step releases those wonderful flavors that form the sauce’s base.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, ½ teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Add just a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity. Let the mixture stir together well.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let your sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This not only thickens the sauce but also melds the flavors beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust the seasoning to taste.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Tear a handful of fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce right before serving. The fresh herb adds a bright, aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.

Notes

  • Use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Simmer slowly to develop depth and balance acidity.
  • Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, and spice levels as you cook.
  • Add minced garlic after the onions to avoid burning.
  • For a chunkier texture, pulse some crushed tomatoes before adding to the pan.
  • Optional red pepper flakes add subtle heat; adjust according to preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade spaghetti sauce, quick tomato sauce, Italian sauce, easy pasta sauce, tomato basil sauce, weeknight dinner