What ingredients do I need to make homemade spaghetti sauce from scratch?

To make homemade spaghetti sauce, you'll typically need canned or fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onions, and a mix of herbs like basil and oregano. Optional ingredients include ground beef or Italian sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Starting with these basics allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your preference.

How long can homemade spaghetti sauce be stored in the refrigerator?

Homemade spaghetti sauce can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. If you don’t plan to use it within that time frame, freezing is recommended to extend its shelf life.

Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce, and what’s the best way to do it?

Yes, homemade spaghetti sauce freezes very well. Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date, and store flat if using bags for quicker thawing. Frozen sauce can last 4 to 6 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove.

Is it possible to make spaghetti sauce without meat for a vegetarian option?

Absolutely. A classic marinara-style spaghetti sauce is meat-free and relies on tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs for flavor. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition. This sauce works well for vegetarians and those avoiding meat.

Can I prepare homemade spaghetti sauce in a slow cooker?

Yes, slow cookers are great for developing rich flavors in spaghetti sauce. Begin by browning any meat and sautéing onions and garlic on the stove. Then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer melds flavors beautifully and is convenient for busy schedules.

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe With Fresh Ingredients

Name: Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 1 pound ground beef (or ½ pound ground Italian sausage and ½ pound ground beef); – Salt and pepper, to taste; – 1 medium onion, chopped; – 15 ounces tomato sauce; – 6 ounces tomato paste; – ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; – 1 tablespoon parsley; – 1 teaspoon garlic powder; – Crushed red pepper, to taste; – 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; – 1 tablespoon sugar; – 1 cup water; – ¼ cup chopped basil (optional, for serving)

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef (or ½ pound ground Italian sausage and ½ pound ground beef)

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 15 ounces tomato sauce

– 6 ounces tomato paste

– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1 tablespoon parsley

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Crushed red pepper, to taste

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon sugar

– 1 cup water

– ¼ cup chopped basil (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1-First Steps: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, brown the beef along with the chopped onion, then drain excess grease. This step helps build a solid foundation of flavor that makes the whole dish pop.

2-Adding the Sauces and Spices: Add the 15 ounces tomato sauce, 6 ounces tomato paste, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon parsley, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, crushed red pepper to taste, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. These ingredients blend together to create that classic, hearty taste we all love.

3-Simmering for Perfection: Add 1 cup water and stir well. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or longer to blend flavors. For the best results, add the ¼ cup chopped basil before serving if desired. This sauce works great in spaghetti, lasagna, stuffed peppers, and more, with a total preparation time of about 40 minutes, including 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍳 Brown ground beef finely by chopping as it cooks for a smoother sauce.
⏳ Simmer longer than 30 minutes to deepen the flavors.
❄️ Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 6 months; reheat on the stove from frozen.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 303
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 814mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 64mg