italian pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
italian pasta sauce recipe
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The Best italian pasta sauce recipe

I’ve been making this Italian pasta sauce recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic recipe that never fails to impress, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for my family or hosting a dinner party, this sauce is always a crowd-pleaser.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special events. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always have fun learning about the different herbs and spices that go into making this sauce. We’ve made this recipe countless times, but it still feels like a special treat every time we sit down to enjoy it together as a family.

The aroma of the simmering sauce fills the entire house, and it’s just magical. I’ve tried many different variations over the years, but this original recipe remains our favorite. It’s a true Italian classic that never goes out of style.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can use it as a base for so many different dishes, from spaghetti to pizza to lasagna. It’s also incredibly healthy, with no added preservatives or artificial flavorings. This sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients: crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and herbs like basil and oregano.

By using these basic ingredients, you can create something truly amazing that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen all day long.

Classic Italian Pasta Sauce

Classic Italian Pasta Sauce

4.9 from 508 votes

A rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce perfect for pasta. This recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, and onions for a true Italian taste.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion finely chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup red wine
1 tbsp sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2Add finely chopped onions and cook until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
3Stir frequently to prevent burning.
4Add minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
6Pour in the red wine and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
7This should take approximately 3-4 minutes.
8Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze and release any browned bits.
9Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the saucepan.
10Stir well to combine all ingredients.
11Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes.
12Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
13The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
14Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
15Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
16Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
17Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
18The sauce can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomatoes before adding them to the pan. Add a pinch of baking soda to reduce the acidity if the tomatoes are very tart.

Watch Video Of How Classic Italian Pasta Sauce Works

This Italian pasta sauce recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

The sauce can be made in large batches and frozen for later use, ensuring that you always have a homemade meal ready to go. Serve it with your favorite pasta and a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

I always enjoy making this recipe, and I am sure that you will too. It’s a dish that will bring warmth and comfort to your table and create cherished memories with your loved ones.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Pasta Sauce

Q: What makes this Italian pasta sauce recipe so special?

This recipe uses only the finest ingredients and traditional techniques to create an authentic Italian sauce that tastes like it was made by nonna herself.

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

While canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh tomatoes for their superior flavor and texture.

Q: How long does the sauce take to simmer?

The sauce should simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

Q: Can I add meat or other protein sources to the sauce?

Yes, you can definitely add ground beef or sausage to the sauce for added depth of flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs like basil or oregano on hand?

You can always use dried herbs as a substitute if you don’t have fresh ones available.

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