Dinner

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Name: Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano); 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity); 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice); 1/2 cup water (or vegetable broth); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)

ByNoah Steele October 21, 2025October 21, 2025

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Introduction

This homemade spaghetti sauce is rich, flavorful, and simple to prepare with pantry staples. It combines tender onions, garlic, and fresh basil with high-quality tomatoes for a classic Italian taste that’s perfect for any pasta night.

A close-up view of a large black pan filled with thick, chunky red tomato sauce that looks fresh and rich, with bits of herbs and small pieces of vegetables mixed in. A wooden spoon is lifting a scoop of the sauce from the pan, showing its texture clearly. Steam rises gently from the hot sauce, giving a warm, freshly cooked feeling. The background has a soft green blur and the scene is set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion (finely chopped)

3 cloves garlic (minced)
28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)

3 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1/2 cup water (or vegetable broth)
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
Step 5: Pour in crushed tomatoes and water (or broth), stirring to combine.
Step 6: Season with Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 7: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Add fresh basil, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes before turning off the heat.
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve over your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine when adding the crushed tomatoes and let it reduce slightly before simmering.
Try substituting vegetable broth for water to enhance flavor.
Omit red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder sauce or add more for extra heat.

Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.
Use fresh tomatoes in season by peeling and crushing them as a substitute for canned.

Storage

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This sauce also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a thick red tomato sauce cooking in a black pan, with visible small chunks of tomatoes and green herbs mixed evenly throughout the sauce. A wooden spoon is lifting a portion of the sauce, showing its rich, slightly chunky texture with bits of herbs. Steam rises gently from the sauce, indicating it's hot and fresh. The background has a soft green and beige blur, emphasizing the vibrant red of the sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes, this sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Prepare it ahead and store in the refrigerator or freezer for convenience.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil adds a bright, vibrant flavor, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Add it earlier in the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate and infuse the sauce.