Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into an extraordinary culinary experience! This mouthwatering spaghetti sauce recipe has been passed down through generations, carrying with it the warmth of family gatherings and the rich flavors of authentic Italian cooking. Imagine a sauce so delicious that it will have your family and friends begging for seconds, a recipe so simple yet so incredibly flavorful that it feels like a well-guarded family secret. Prepare to embark on a delectable journey that will elevate your home cooking and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large saucepan or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers.
- Add 1 chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
- Next, add 2 minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Pour in 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine the tomatoes with the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of sugar. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once done, remove the pot from heat. Your Aunt Amy's Spaghetti Sauce is now ready to be served over your favorite pasta or used as a base for other Italian dishes.
- Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired!
Tips
- Fresh is Best: While this recipe uses canned crushed tomatoes, using high-quality, ripe tomatoes can take your sauce to the next level.
- Low and Slow: The key to developing deep, rich flavors is to simmer the sauce on low heat. Patience is crucial in creating a truly memorable sauce.
- Garlic Wisdom: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter. Add it after the onions and sauté briefly.
- Seasoning Secrets: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, and adjust gradually. Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Make Ahead Magic: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and let the flavors continue to develop.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to add your own twist - some red pepper flakes for heat, a splash of red wine, or fresh herbs can personalize the recipe.
- Storage Tip: The sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
