Name: Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 6 cloves garlic, sliced; 1/2 tsp. dried basil (optional); 1/2 tsp. dried oregano; 3 tsp. kosher salt, divided; 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided; 1 lb. (85% lean) ground beef; 2 (28-oz.) cans whole peeled tomatoes; 1 Parmesan rind; 1/4 c. chopped fresh basil; 1 tbsp. unsalted butter

Introduction

This homemade spaghetti sauce is rich, savory, and packed with fresh flavors. Made from scratch using simple ingredients, it’s perfect for pasta nights when you want a comforting, hearty meal. The slow-simmered sauce blends tender ground beef, aromatic herbs, and ripe tomatoes for a classic Italian taste.

A large pot filled with chunky meat sauce showing about one thick layer of rich, deep red tomato sauce mixed with browned ground beef and diced onions, creating a textured, hearty appearance. The sauce has a slightly oily sheen with some visible liquid pooling on top, with bits of tomato and onion scattered throughout. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, partially dipped in the sauce, adding a natural brown color contrast. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface that gives a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

6 cloves garlic, sliced

1/2 tsp. dried basil (optional)

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

3 tsp. kosher salt, divided

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided

1 lb. (85% lean) ground beef

2 (28-oz.) cans whole peeled tomatoes

1 Parmesan rind

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

1 tbsp. unsalted butter

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, dried basil (if using), oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and lightly golden, about 7 minutes.

Step 2: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally and adjusting heat as needed, until the beef starts to brown, about 8 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, crush the whole peeled tomatoes and their juices with your hands until broken into small pieces. Add the tomatoes and Parmesan rind to the saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces by about one-quarter and the raw tomato flavor cooks out, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from heat and discard the Parmesan rind.

Step 4: Stir in the fresh basil, butter, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon salt. Toss until the sauce is glossy and the butter has melted. Serve hot over your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce longer to deepen the taste and thicken the texture.

Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef for a different protein option.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the herbs for a subtle spicy kick.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering to puree to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Flavors often improve after sitting overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

Do I have to use a Parmesan rind in the sauce?

While the Parmesan rind adds a lovely depth of umami flavor, you can omit it if you don’t have one. The sauce will still be delicious with the herbs and beef.