Description
This is the BEST homemade spaghetti sauce—rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor! Made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and ground beef, this sauce simmers to perfection, creating a comforting, restaurant-quality dish. Whether you prefer a classic, meaty version or a plant-based alternative, this recipe is fully customizable and absolutely delicious. Serve it over your favorite pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- ½ cup water (or beef broth)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (or grated carrot for natural sweetness)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional, but highly recommended)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
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Sauté the Aromatics – In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat – Add ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
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Build the Sauce – Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water (or beef broth). Mix well to combine.
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Season to Perfection – Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, sugar, oregano, basil, and paprika. Stir well to blend the flavors. Drop in the Parmesan rind for an extra boost of umami.
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Let It Simmer – Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
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Final Touches & Serve – Remove the Parmesan rind (if used) and taste the sauce, adjusting seasonings as needed. Stir in fresh basil just before serving. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Meat Options – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or a mix of Italian sausage for a more robust flavor.
- Vegetarian Alternative – Use finely chopped mushrooms or lentils instead of meat for a plant-based version.
- Make It Spicier – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Freezer-Friendly – This sauce freezes beautifully! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g