This spaghetti sauce is a simple, yet flavorful homemade recipe that comes together quickly using pantry staples like canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Whether you’re using lean ground turkey or beef, the combination of rich tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and classic Italian herbs makes this sauce the perfect companion for your favorite pasta.
A touch of sugar helps balance the acidity, and frying the tomato paste—an old family trick—adds an extra depth of flavor. This recipe is both flexible and packed with deliciousness, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef with ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a vegetarian option.
2. What if I don’t have fresh garlic or onions?
No problem! You can easily substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon per clove) and fresh onions with onion powder (1 1/2 teaspoons per half onion).
3. Why add sugar to the sauce?
A small amount of sugar helps to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the sauce a more balanced and less tangy flavor. It’s optional, but it can make a noticeable difference.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Yes, if you have fresh tomatoes, you can use about 6-7 medium-sized tomatoes. Peel and chop them before adding them to the sauce. Keep in mind that canned tomatoes are more concentrated, so fresh tomatoes may need extra time to cook down.
5. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for longer to allow the liquid to evaporate.
6. Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! This sauce actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
7. What pasta works best with this sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with any pasta, but spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are classic choices. Feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes!
Enjoy your homemade spaghetti sauce with pasta, or use it as a base for other Italian dishes like lasagna or baked ziti!
My “Go to” Easy Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil to help brown the lean meat
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or beef 93% lean preferred
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted if available)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste for concentrated flavor
- 3 cloves minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 chopped onion or 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if not using fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon sugar to reduce acidity, optional
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup water to thin out the sauce as needed
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown the meat completely.
- Once the meat is browned, push it to the side of the pan. In the open space, add the tomato paste and fry it for about 1-2 minutes to develop a deeper flavor (a family tradition!).
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, water, salt, garlic powder (if using), onion powder (if not using fresh onion), dried basil, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity, if desired.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens. Cook low and slow until you are ready – the longer the better!
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
