Creating this simple and versatile foundation of home-cooking. Updated since 11/25/2023

Spaghetti sauce, a culinary cornerstone, transforms humble ingredients into a rich, aromatic meal. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and ground beef creates a savory foundation, while crushed tomatoes lend a robust depth. Infused with a medley of dried herbs—oregano, basil, and bay leaves—the sauce simmers to perfection, allowing flavors to meld and intensify. A touch of sugar balances acidity, and optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle heat. This versatile sauce, served over al dente pasta, weaves tradition and comfort into each twirl of the fork, turning mere sustenance into the heartwarming essence of a home-cooked meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups (1 large onion), finely chopped
• 1-pound Italian sausage or ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 4 teaspoons (3 cloves garlic), minced
• 3 can (28 ounces) Italian style or plain crushed tomatoes in puree
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (12 ounces) tomato paste
• 4 bay leaves
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 4 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 16-ounce package spaghetti or other cooked pasta of your choice (cooked when serving sauce)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
2. Brown the Meat
   • Add the ground meat or meatballs to the pot and cook until browned. Break ground beef apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add Tomatoes
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water, sugar and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
4. Seasoning
   • Add parsley, spices and seasoning. Stir to incorporate.
5. Simmer
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
6. Adjust Seasoning
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it’s too acidic, you can add a bit more sugar.
7. Serve
   • Serve the spaghetti sauce over cooked pasta of your choice. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Feel free to customize this basic recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

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