Description

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.

Notes

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.