Spaghetti and lasagna sauce is a versatile and delicious sauce that can be used in various pasta dishes. This recipe combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful sauce that is perfect for topping spaghetti, layering in lasagna, or even as a dipping sauce for garlic bread. The key to a great spaghetti and lasagna sauce is to let it simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, deep flavor.
Ingredients for Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the saucepan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes.
- If using, stir in the red wine and let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season the sauce with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
About the Main Ingredients
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are the base of this sauce, providing a rich, savory flavor and a thick, hearty texture.
- Ground Beef: Ground beef adds meaty flavor and texture to the sauce, making it more satisfying and filling.
- Onion, Garlic, Carrot, Celery: These aromatic vegetables add depth of flavor and sweetness to the sauce.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary are classic Italian herbs that add a fragrant and savory flavor to the sauce.
- Red Wine: Red wine adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce, but it can be omitted if you prefer.
This spaghetti and lasagna sauce is perfect for making ahead of time and freezing for later use. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used in many dishes, so feel free to experiment and enjoy!
