Go Back
Easy homemade Italian spaghetti sauce simmers in a pot, showcasing fresh ingredients and a rich, flavorful meal perfect for pasta night.

Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Ever

This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe delivers authentic Italian flavor with fresh ingredients and simple steps. Simmered low and slow, it creates a rich and complex sauce that's far superior to store-bought versions, perfect for pasta, pizza, and more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage optional
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • 15 ounces canned tomato puree
  • 6 ounces canned tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup red wine optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  4. If adding meat, add it to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
  6. Add basil, oregano, thyme, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. If using red wine, add it now.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, sugar, or herbs to your liking.
  9. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, with meatballs, sausage, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use San Marzano tomatoes. Simmering the sauce for a longer time develops a deeper, more complex flavor. To store, let cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. For a spicy sauce, add red pepper flakes. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.