A rich, slow-simmered spaghetti sauce is the heart of any great pasta dish. This classic tomato-based sauce is filled with aromatics, herbs, and optional ground meat for depth and comfort. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for weeknights or batch cooking. Here’s your complete guide to making the best spaghetti sauce at home.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup water or broth
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How to Make Spaghetti Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat (If Using)
Add ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Mix well.
Step 4: Season
Add sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer
Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce thickens and flavors deepen.
Step 6: Adjust & Serve
Taste and adjust salt or herbs. Serve over cooked spaghetti or use as a base for pasta dishes.
Flavor Variations
1. Meat Lover’s Sauce
Add more beef, sausage, or a mix of veal + pork + beef.
2. Vegetable Spaghetti Sauce
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or spinach.
3. Spicy Arrabbiata
Increase chili flakes and add 1 chopped red chili.
4. Creamy Tomato Sauce
Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or mascarpone at the end.
5. Slow Cooker Version
Combine everything and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss with spaghetti, linguine, or penne
- Use as a base for lasagna
- Spoon over stuffed shells or baked ziti
- Serve with garlic bread and salad
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Freezer
Freeze in zip bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat
Warm on stovetop over low heat or microwave in intervals.
Nutrition Table (Per 1 Cup — with meat)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 22% DV |
Pro Tips for the Best Sauce
Simmer longer for deeper flavor.
Add a splash of red wine for richness.
Sugar is optional but balances acidity.
Fresh herbs at the end make the sauce
