Homemade spaghetti sauce is a classic recipe that brings comfort and flavor to any pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, a homemade sauce made from scratch is sure to impress. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious spaghetti sauce using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this flavorful sauce!
Ingredients for Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- Add Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pan, stirring to combine.
- Season: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce tastes too acidic, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Serve
- Cook Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Combine: Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the pasta before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
About the Main Ingredients
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the star ingredient of this spaghetti sauce, providing a rich and tangy base. Using a combination of crushed and diced tomatoes adds texture to the sauce, while tomato paste helps to thicken it and intensify the tomato flavor.
Aromatics (Onion and Garlic)
Onion and garlic add depth and complexity to the sauce, providing a savory foundation of flavor. Sautéing them in olive oil before adding the tomatoes helps to release their natural sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.
Herbs and Spices
Dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary add Mediterranean-inspired flavors to the sauce, while red pepper flakes (optional) provide a subtle heat. These herbs and spices work together to create a well-balanced sauce that is both aromatic and flavorful.
Homemade spaghetti sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to any pasta dish. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni, this classic sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!
