Description
Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
This spaghetti sauce is a game-changer! Packed with bold flavors, it’s a classic that never disappoints. Made with ground beef, Italian sausage, and aromatic herbs, this sauce is hearty, comforting, and so easy to make in just one pot. Skip the store-bought versions and experience the magic of homemade—your taste buds will thank you!
1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
28 oz crushed tomatoes
1 cup water or beef broth
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
1. Brown beef, sausage, and onion.
2. Add garlic, seasoning, and tomatoes.
3. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 214 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb of lean ground beef and 1 lb of Italian sausage (casings removed) with the finely diced onion. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
3. Pour in the 28 oz of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of water or beef broth. For a touch of sweetness to balance acidity, stir in 1 tbsp of optional sugar.
4. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 1 hour.
5. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir in 2 tbsp of fresh parsley just before serving, if using.
Serving Suggestions
This robust sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or fettuccine. For a classic Italian-American dish, layer it in a lasagna. It also makes a perfect topping for meatball subs, a base for homemade pizza, or a dipping sauce for garlic bread. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
How-to Summary
Brown ground beef and Italian sausage with onion. Add garlic and dried herbs, then stir in crushed tomatoes and liquid. Simmer for 20-30 minutes to meld flavors, finish with fresh parsley, and serve over pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. This sauce tastes even better the next day. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
Simply omit the ground beef and sausage. Use a plant-based meat alternative or add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms and an extra can of crushed tomatoes for a hearty vegetarian version.
Can I freeze the leftover sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes beautifully. Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is the sugar necessary?
The sugar is optional but recommended. It doesn’t make the sauce sweet; it helps to neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a more balanced, rounded flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat the sauce?
Reheat it slowly in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of water, broth, or pasta cooking water to loosen it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Browning the Meat Properly: Avoid steaming the meat. Ensure your pot is hot enough to get a good sear, which builds a deep flavor foundation.
- Overcooking the Garlic: Add garlic after browning the meat and cook only for about 60 seconds until fragrant. Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
- Skipping the Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process won’t allow the flavors to fully develop. A minimum of 20 minutes is essential.
- Using Canned Tomatoes with Added Seasonings: Stick to plain crushed tomatoes. Pre-seasoned varieties can throw off the balance of your own herb blend.
Conclusion
This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe delivers the rich, comforting flavor that makes a meal memorable. By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily create a restaurant-quality sauce that far surpasses anything from a jar. It’s a foundational recipe that invites customization and is sure to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!