# Classic Homemade Spaghetti Sauce – A Rich and Flavorful Recipe for the Perfect Pasta Night!
Few things in life are as comforting—or as universally loved—as a warm plate of spaghetti drenched in rich, homemade spaghetti sauce. This Classic Homemade Spaghetti Sauce recipe brings the heartwarming flavors of Italian comfort food into your kitchen with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and will turn any night into a memorable #SpaghettiNight.
Packed with aromatic herbs, savory meat, and the rich tang of tomatoes, this sauce is versatile and perfect for pairing with a simple spaghetti pasta or elevating any Italian-inspired dish. The fresh parsley and grated Parmesan at the end tie it all together, creating a delectable meal the whole family will love.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of savory meatiness, tangy tomatoes, and a slight hint of earthiness from dried basil and oregano.
- Texture: Thick and hearty, with bits of tender ground beef or sausage that provide a satisfying bite.
- Aroma: An intoxicating medley of garlic, onion, basil, and simmering tomatoes fills your kitchen.
- Visual Appeal: Deep red sauce with specks of vibrant green parsley and the occasional golden hue of melted Parmesan.
- Skill Level Needed: Simple enough for beginners but delightful enough to impress guests.
- Special Equipment: A large pot for simmering, wooden spoon for mixing, and a sharp knife for chopping.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy. This recipe uses basic cooking techniques like sautéing, simmering, and browning, making it ideal even for novice cooks.
- Category: Main Course.
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired with classic flavors and modern convenience.
- Cost: Budget-friendly. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and the recipe serves up to six portions.
- Season: Perfect year-round, but especially comforting in cooler months.
- Occasion: A versatile recipe for casual family dinners, romantic date nights, or meal prep for a busy week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade spaghetti sauce is a keeper, and here’s why:
– **Taste and Texture Appeal:** It’s rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. The crushed tomatoes and tomato paste bring depth, while the Italian sausage (or ground beef) adds heartiness.
– **Convenience and Preparation Benefits:** All you need is one pot and under an hour to create a sauce that rivals any Italian restaurant.
– **Nutritional Advantages:** Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants like lycopene. By controlling the ingredients, you can make this sauce as healthy as you like.
– **Social and Entertaining Value:** Serve this at a dinner party or a potluck, and it’s sure to be a star dish that unites people around the table.
– **Cost-Effectiveness:** With affordable ingredients, this recipe feeds a family for the price of a single restaurant serving—without sacrificing quality.
The Recipe
Classic Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup red wine or beef broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked spaghetti pasta for serving
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Add dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
- Pour in red wine or beef broth and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese just before serving. Allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti noodles, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Recipe Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils instead.
- This sauce freezes beautifully—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this sauce for days. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
A robust red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with this rich sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a twist of lime or an Italian soda.
Invite the aroma of simmering tomatoes into your home today and create a meal that your family will request time and again. Dreamy, rich, and undeniably satisfying—this classic spaghetti sauce is everything you need for #PastaPerfection! 🍝