There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of spaghetti topped with rich, flavorful homemade spaghetti sauce. It’s one of those classic meals that instantly makes you feel at home. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this easy homemade spaghetti sauce recipe will become your go-to.

Using simple ingredients and just a little time, you’ll create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor and far superior to store-bought jars. Plus, making spaghetti sauce from scratch is a lot easier than you might think! In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to whip up the perfect sauce, along with tips, tricks, and answers to common questions.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

• Easy to Make: Even beginners can master this recipe!
• Wholesome Ingredients: No preservatives, just real, fresh ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning, sweetness, or consistency to suit your taste.
• Versatile: Works great with spaghetti, lasagna, or even as a pizza sauce.

Ingredients for Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

To make this delicious sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount
Lean Ground Beef	2 pounds
Onion (chopped)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves
Tomato Paste Concentrate	1 tablespoon
Italian Seasoning	2 tablespoons
Crushed San Marzano Tomatoes	1 (28-ounce) can
Tomato Sauce	1 (15-ounce) can
Sugar	2 tablespoons
Kosher Salt	1-½ teaspoons
Fresh Cracked Pepper	1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Spaghetti Sauce

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, set to medium-high heat, add your 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.

2. Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor base for your sauce.

3. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in the minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste concentrate. Let it cook for about 1 minute to release the aroma. This adds a rich depth of flavor to your sauce.

4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Add the following to the pot:

• 1 can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1 can of tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning
• 1-½ teaspoons of kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon of fresh cracked pepper

Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

5. Add Water and Simmer

Using the empty 15-ounce tomato sauce can, fill it with water and pour it into the pot. Stir well. Reduce the heat to low, and place the lid on the pot at a slight angle to allow some steam to escape. Let the sauce simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken beautifully during this time.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Cook your spaghetti or favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Ladle the sauce over the pasta, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy your homemade creation!

Tips for the Best Spaghetti Sauce

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and quality tomatoes make a noticeable difference.
• San Marzano Tomatoes: These Italian tomatoes are sweeter and less acidic, ideal for a rich sauce.
• Adjust the Sugar: Taste your sauce before adding all the sugar. Depending on the tomatoes, you may need less.
• Simmer for Flavor: The longer you simmer the sauce, the more flavorful it will become.

Variations and Add-Ons

1. Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

2. Veggie-Packed Sauce

Sneak in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition.

3. Meat Lovers’ Delight

Mix ground sausage or pancetta with the ground beef for extra savory flavor.

4. Herbaceous Upgrade

Toss in fresh basil or oregano during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	12g
Fiber	3g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it while sautéing.
2. Skipping the Simmering Step: This is where all the flavors meld together. Don’t rush it!
3. Using the Wrong Tomatoes: Stick to high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
4. Not Draining Fat: If you don’t drain the fat from the beef, your sauce may turn greasy.

FAQ About Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

1. Can I Freeze Spaghetti Sauce?

Yes! Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

2. How Do I Reheat Frozen Sauce?

Thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.

3. Can I Make This Sauce Without Meat?

Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and use extra vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

4. What Pasta Pairs Best with This Sauce?

This sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles.

5. Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to blanch and peel the fresh tomatoes before using them. Canned San Marzano tomatoes save time and effort.

6. How Do I Thicken My Sauce?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to reduce.

Conclusion

Making easy homemade spaghetti sauce is a simple way to elevate your pasta dishes while adding a personal touch to every meal. By following this recipe, you’ll master a flavorful sauce that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Customize it to your liking, and don’t forget to share it with friends and loved ones!

Ready to try it out? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking! Your homemade spaghetti sauce will make any meal unforgettable.

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