This spaghetti sauce is the kind of slow-simmered, tomato-rich comfort food that turns a simple pasta night into something special. It’s made from pantry staples but tastes like it came from your Italian grandma’s kitchen—if you had one.
Whether you’re tossing it with spaghetti, layering it in lasagna, or spooning it over meatballs, this sauce is your go-to for cozy dinners that warm the soul.
⏱ Prep Time 10 minutes ｜ 🔥 Cook Time 45 minutes ｜ 🍽 Servings 6 ｜ 🌱 Difficulty Level Easy ｜ 📦 Storage Tips Store in fridge for 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 can (800g / 28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and golden.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover partially. Simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in fresh herbs if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
Recipe Notes / Tips
Want it chunky? Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Prefer it smooth? Blend it with an immersion blender.
Add cooked ground beef or sausage for a meaty version.
Nutrition Info (approx. per serving, sauce only)
- Calories: 130
- Carbs: 11g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
FAQs
- Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- A: Yes—use 8–10 peeled, chopped tomatoes. Cook longer for flavor to develop.
- Q: Can I skip the sugar?
- A: You can, but it helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Q: How do I thicken the sauce?
- A: Simmer uncovered longer or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
Sauced up your pasta night? Share a swirl of spaghetti and tag it with #the_food_pedia on Instagram! 🍝🍅✨
