Kay's Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce

Name: Kay's Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 500 g ground beef; 1 can tomato paste (156 ml); 2 cans crushed tomatoes (796 ml each); 1 tbsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 cup red wine (optional); 1 bay leaf

75 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

A rich and hearty sauce perfect for both spaghetti and lasagna, with a delightful blend of spices and flavours that will make your pasta dishes unforgettable.

Prep

15 min

Cook

60 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Kay's Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce is a versatile and flavourful addition to your pasta repertoire. This sauce combines the richness of tomatoes with a delightful blend of herbs and spices, making it the perfect partner for both spaghetti and lasagna. Whether you're cooking for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this sauce will elevate your dishes to new heights. The recipe has been crafted to deliver a robust taste that can stand alone or complement your favourite pasta dishes beautifully.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Don't let the garlic brown as it can become bitter.

Brown the Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 8 minutes.

Pro tip: Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize slightly.

Pro tip: This adds depth to the flavour.

Combine with Tomatoes

Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Optional Wine Addition

Pour in the red wine and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Wine adds a rich flavour but can be omitted if desired.

Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Pro tip: The longer it simmers, the better the flavours meld.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavour.
Simmer the sauce slowly to deepen the flavours.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference as it cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Kay's spaghetti and lasagna sauce unique?

Kay's sauce is distinguished by its rich blend of herbs and the optional addition of red wine for depth.

How many calories are in Kay's spaghetti and lasagna sauce?

Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.

Can I freeze Kay's spaghetti and lasagna sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.

Is red wine necessary in the sauce?

Red wine is optional and adds richness, but you can omit it if preferred.

How long should I simmer Kay's sauce?

Simmer the sauce for about 45 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal. Alternatively, layer it between sheets of lasagna with ricotta and mozzarella for a classic Italian dish. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

15g

Protein

12g

Fat

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