Pasta Sauce Recipe

Making a delicious pasta sauce from scratch is easier than you might think. This beginner-friendly, step-by-step guide will help you create a rich and flavorful pasta sauce that pairs perfectly with any type of pasta. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Before we begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onion: Add 1 finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add Garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

1. Add Tomatoes: Pour in 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes and 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes.
2. Stir in Tomato Paste: Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

1. Add Seasonings: Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Mix Well: Stir the sauce until all the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

1. Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a simmer.
2. Reduce Heat: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

1. Taste the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar to suit your taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve with Pasta: Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Sauce

• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano, you can use them instead of dried herbs. Add them towards the end of the cooking time for the best flavor.
• Tomato Quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
• Slow Simmer: The longer you simmer the sauce, the more flavorful it will be. If you have time, let it simmer for up to an hour.

FAQ

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or meatballs to the sauce. Brown the meat separately and then add it to the sauce during the simmering step.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period. You can also add more tomato paste.

Conclusion

This easy homemade pasta sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for other Italian dishes. Enjoy your homemade pasta sauce!