Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

This homemade spaghetti sauce is a hearty, flavorful sauce made with lean ground beef, Italian sausage, fresh garlic, onions, and a mix of diced and crushed tomatoes. It’s simmered to perfection with Italian herbs and a touch of sweetness, creating a rich and zesty sauce perfect for serving over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Simple to make and delicious, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ pound Italian sausage, casings removed, or bulk sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• ¼ cup shredded carrot or a pinch of sugar
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the meat is fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat.
• Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, shredded carrot, Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
• Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, or until thickened.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
• Stir in fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
• Serve over cooked spaghetti or pasta of your choice.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this spaghetti sauce hot over freshly cooked pasta for a classic Italian meal. It also pairs well with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or as a sauce for lasagna or baked pasta dishes. Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes while simmering for a subtle kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
• Wine-Infused Sauce: Add ½ cup red wine during simmering for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a silky, creamy sauce.
• Herb Variations: Swap fresh basil for oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
• Meat-Free Option: Replace the beef and sausage with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours for hands-off cooking.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sauce vegetarian? Yes, substitute the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based sausage.
2. How long can I keep the sauce in the refrigerator? Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze this spaghetti sauce? Yes, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
4. Do I need to peel the canned tomatoes? No, the sauce cooks down, and peeling is optional.
5. Can I use turkey instead of beef? Yes, lean ground turkey works well as a substitute.
6. How can I thicken the sauce? Simmer longer or add extra tomato paste gradually.
7. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots work well.
8. Is this sauce suitable for meal prep? Absolutely, it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
9. Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, use peeled, chopped fresh tomatoes for a fresher flavor.
10. Can I make this sauce in advance? Yes, it tastes even better when made a day ahead as the flavors meld.

This homemade spaghetti sauce is rich, meaty, and bursting with flavor. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for a comforting family meal. Whether served over spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for easy, ready-to-go meals

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