How to Make Spaghetti Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s something magical about the smell of spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. It’s the kind of aroma that makes your house feel like a home. And let’s be honest—nothing beats the taste of a homemade sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through making a rich, flavorful spaghetti sauce from scratch. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to the jarred stuff.

What You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make a sauce that’s packed with flavor:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing those veggies to perfection.
• 1 onion, chopped – the base of any good sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic is life.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped – red or green, your call.
• 2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 ounces each) – the star of the show.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – for that extra depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – a classic Italian herb.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – because basil and tomatoes are a match made in heaven.
• Salt and pepper to taste – don’t be shy with the seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish – because presentation matters.

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

First things first, let’s chop and mince. Grab your onion and give it a good chop—nothing too fine, just enough to blend into the sauce. Next, mince those garlic cloves. If you’re like me and love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. Finally, chop up your bell pepper. Red peppers add a touch of sweetness, while green ones bring a bit of earthiness. Your choice!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Now, heat up that olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it turns translucent—about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and bell pepper. Stir everything around for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are soft and your kitchen smells amazing. This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of your sauce’s flavor.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Time to bring in the tomatoes! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Now, sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and that teaspoon of sugar. The sugar might seem odd, but it’s a game-changer—it cuts through the acidity of the tomatoes and gives the sauce a well-rounded taste.

Step 4: Let It Simmer

Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer. This is where the magic happens. Give it at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got the time, let it go longer. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Stir it occasionally, and don’t forget to taste as you go. Need more salt? Add it. Want a bit more basil? Go for it. This is your sauce—make it your own.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once your sauce has thickened and the flavors are just right, take it off the heat. Serve it over a bed of freshly cooked spaghetti, and don’t forget to garnish with those fresh basil leaves. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also bring a fresh, herby note to the dish.

How to Serve Your Sauce

This spaghetti sauce is incredibly versatile. Sure, it’s perfect over pasta, but why stop there? Use it as a base for lasagna, spoon it over meatballs, or even dip your garlic bread into it. Pair it with a crisp salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!

Making spaghetti sauce from scratch might seem like a bit of work, but trust me, it’s worth it. There’s something so satisfying about creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and made with love. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!

Pro tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for later. Homemade sauce is a gift that keeps on giving!