Tasty Spaghetti Sauce from Scratch

Name: Tasty Spaghetti Sauce from Scratch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 800 grams canned tomatoes (crushed); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

60 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A rich and flavourful spaghetti sauce packed with herbs and spices. Perfect for pasta nights!

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

There's nothing quite like a homemade spaghetti sauce to elevate your pasta dishes. Our version is rich with the robust flavours of tomatoes, garlic, and a medley of herbs, making it a perfect companion to any pasta dish. This sauce is designed for those who appreciate the depth of flavour that comes from slow-cooked ingredients. It's an uncomplicated recipe that packs a punch, whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests. By making your own sauce, you're in control of the ingredients and can adjust the flavours to suit your personal taste. This recipe is a great starting point for making a sauce that is uniquely yours.

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the onions are not browning; reduce heat if necessary.

Add garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning.

Incorporate tomatoes

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine.

Pro tip: Rinse the tomato cans with a bit of water to get all the tomato goodness, and add it to the pot.

Season the sauce

Add sugar, oregano, basil, and the bay leaf. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Pro tip: The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Simmer

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: The longer you simmer, the deeper the flavour.

Season to taste

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Pro tip: Allow the sauce to cool slightly before refrigerating or freezing.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavour.
Simmer the sauce for longer to deepen the taste.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to avoid scorching.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a spaghetti sauce tasty?

A combination of fresh ingredients, a balance of acidity and sweetness, and a variety of herbs and spices make a spaghetti sauce tasty.

How can I thicken spaghetti sauce?

To thicken spaghetti sauce, simmer it longer to reduce liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and crush them before adding to the pot.

How long does spaghetti sauce last in the fridge?

Homemade spaghetti sauce can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can spaghetti sauce be frozen?

Yes, spaghetti sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this tasty spaghetti sauce over your favourite pasta, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped basil. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving.