Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Looking for a simple homemade spaghetti sauce recipe that’s packed with flavor and made from pantry staples? This easy spaghetti sauce comes together with just a few ingredients and simmers into a rich, hearty sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over your favorite pasta, use it in lasagna, or freeze extra for an easy meal later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings
- Freezer-friendly for meal prep
- Tastes great, even the next day
Ingredients
Olive or avocado oil
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Ground beef
Tomato sauce
Diced tomatoes
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Salt
Pepper
Dried Oregano
Dried Basil
Ground Thyme
Instructions
1. Cook the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet (or skillet of your choice) over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Brown the Meat
Add in the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all seasonings.
4. Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor will become and the thicker the sauce will be. Put a lid on at any point if desired to keep the liquid in and stop it from thickening more.
5. Serve
Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. (You can find my homemade noodle recipe here)
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add in the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all seasonings.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor will become and the thicker the sauce will be. Put a lid on at any point if desired to keep the liquid in and stop it from thickening more.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. (You can find my homemade noodle recipe here)
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Tips for the Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Stir in fresh basil at the end for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
You will also love these recipes:
Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls
Make a Sourdough Starter From Scratch
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make spaghetti sauce ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavor improves after a day in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce?
Absolutely. Allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Can I make this sauce without meat?
Yes. Simply omit the meat for an easy vegetarian spaghetti sauce.
Final Thoughts
A pot of homemade spaghetti sauce is one of the simplest ways to bring everyone around the table. This easy recipe is rich, comforting, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or stocking your freezer for later, this homemade spaghetti sauce is sure to become a family favorite.
