Easy Spaghetti Sauce

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I’ve been making this Easy Spaghetti Sauce for years, and it’s one of those recipes that always brings comfort and joy. Whether I’m in a rush on a weekday or planning a cozy dinner for friends, this sauce never lets me down. It’s rich, savory, and packed with layers of flavor from simple ingredients most of us already have in the pantry.

What I love most is how forgiving and versatile it is—you can keep it completely meat-free for a vegetarian version or toss in some ground beef or Italian sausage if you want it heartier. The aroma of garlic and tomatoes simmering on the stove is enough to make anyone hungry. This is my go-to red sauce for spaghetti, lasagna, meatball subs, or even pizza.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Spaghetti Sauce

This sauce comes together with basic ingredients but tastes like it simmered all day. It’s perfect for meal prep, easy to freeze, and customizable based on your preferences. Whether you want a simple dinner or something impressive for guests, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s healthier and more budget-friendly than store-bought sauces, with no added sugars or preservatives.

What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use?

Canned crushed tomatoes are ideal for this recipe because they create a smooth, rich base without needing to blend or cook for hours. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can mix in some diced tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are especially flavorful and sweet, but regular crushed tomatoes work just fine too. Avoid tomato purée unless you like a very smooth and slightly sweeter sauce.

Options for Substitutions

You can easily make this sauce your own. Don’t have fresh garlic? Use garlic powder. No basil? Substitute with dried Italian seasoning. Want to add protein? Brown some ground beef or plant-based crumbles and stir them in. For a deeper flavor, a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar adds a nice complexity. If you’re watching your salt intake, opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes and adjust the salt to taste.

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Ingredients for this Easy Spaghetti Sauce

• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic and onions, unlocking their flavors.
• Garlic (minced) – Brings depth and bold flavor that defines a great spaghetti sauce.
• Onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and texture, creating a flavorful base.
• Crushed Tomatoes – The heart of the sauce, providing a thick, smooth, tomato-rich body.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Dried Oregano – Offers that classic Italian flavor that enhances the entire sauce.
• Dried Basil – Adds a subtle sweetness and fragrant herbal note.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the acidity.
• Sugar (optional) – Helps mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they taste too sharp.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a little heat.
• Water or Broth – Loosens the sauce to your preferred consistency and adds depth when using broth.

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute or two to caramelize slightly. This enhances its flavor and removes any tinny taste. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 3: Season Generously

Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a small pinch of sugar. Pour in a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce slightly and help it simmer smoothly.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the flavors time to deepen and develop. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more water or broth.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed—more salt, a bit more sugar, or even another pinch of herbs if desired. If you’re adding cooked meat or plant-based crumbles, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to absorb the sauce’s flavor.

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How Long to Prepare the Easy Spaghetti Sauce

Prep Time: This sauce doesn’t require much prep—chopping the onions and garlic will take about 5 to 10 minutes. The remaining ingredients are mostly pantry staples that you can just measure out quickly.

Cook Time: Once everything is combined in the pot, the sauce benefits from a slow simmer of 20 to 30 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming basic ingredients into something really special. You can simmer it longer if desired, especially if you’ve added meat.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Spaghetti Sauce

• Use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Sauté your onions until translucent, not browned, for a sweeter base.
• Let the tomato paste cook out for maximum richness.
• Don’t skip seasoning—herbs and spices make a huge difference.
• Simmer slowly with the lid off to reduce and thicken naturally.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Burning the garlic – It can turn bitter fast, so always add it after the onions.
• Skipping the simmer – Rushing this step results in a flat-tasting sauce.
• Over-seasoning too early – Flavors concentrate as it cooks; adjust at the end.
• Using poor quality tomatoes – Bland tomatoes = bland sauce.
• Not tasting before serving – Final adjustments make a huge difference.

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What to Serve With Easy Spaghetti Sauce?

1. Classic Spaghetti

You can’t go wrong with spaghetti noodles—this sauce was made for them.

2. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for mopping up leftover sauce.

3. Meatballs

Add homemade or store-bought meatballs directly into the sauce for a hearty meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Serve over roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a low-carb option.

5. Polenta

Creamy polenta topped with this sauce makes an amazing rustic comfort dish.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Once cooled, store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Freezer: This sauce freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen in a saucepan.

Reheating: Warm over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per 1/2 cup serving without meat)

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 380mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this sauce thicker?

Simmer it longer uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also add a little more tomato paste.

Can I add meat directly into the sauce?

Yes! Brown the meat first, then simmer it with the sauce for the last 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Is it okay to skip the sugar?

Absolutely. The sugar is optional and only helps if your tomatoes are very acidic.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can, but you’ll need to peel, chop, and cook them longer to get a similar texture and depth.

How long can I freeze the sauce?

Up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container.

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Conclusion

This Easy Spaghetti Sauce is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something truly satisfying. It’s adaptable, full of rich tomato flavor, and can transform even a weeknight meal into something special. Whether you’re topping noodles, dipping garlic bread, or prepping for the week ahead, this sauce will be your trusty go-to.

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