Easy Spaghetti Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Spaghetti Sauce is flavorful, hearty, and incredibly simple to make. It combines the richness of ground beef with the tanginess of tomatoes and a mix of classic Italian herbs and spices. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and a hint of sugar balances out the flavors beautifully, creating a well-rounded sauce that’s not too acidic and full of savory goodness. It’s a perfect base for a variety of pasta dishes and can be made ahead of time for even easier dinners. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 yellow or white onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed tomato soup
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce with Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the finely diced onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the kosher salt, crushed tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, and tomato sauce with Italian herbs. Mix well to combine.
4. Add the dried parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried basil, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors should meld together.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a bit more sugar.
7. Serve over your favorite pasta, or use it as a topping for lasagna, pizza, or even a dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Preparation and cooking time is approximately 35–45 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use a combination of mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian sauce.
• Spicy Spaghetti Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce to add a spicy kick.
• Herb-Heavy Sauce: For a more robust herbal flavor, increase the amount of dried basil, oregano, or thyme.
• Tomato Paste: If you prefer a richer tomato flavor, replace the condensed tomato soup with an extra can of crushed tomatoes or a bit of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I freeze this spaghetti sauce?

Yes, this sauce freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will give the sauce a lighter flavor while still maintaining a rich texture.

What type of pasta goes best with this sauce?

This spaghetti sauce pairs well with any type of pasta, but it’s especially delicious with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. You can also use it for baked pasta dishes like lasagna or ziti.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors continue to meld. It’s perfect for meal prep or preparing ahead of time for a busy week.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for a longer period of time. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

What can I add to make this sauce more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during cooking. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes will also add a nice heat, if you like spice.

How can I reduce the acidity of the sauce?

If the sauce is too acidic, you can balance it by adding a pinch more sugar or a small amount of baking soda. Be careful not to add too much baking soda, as it can alter the flavor.

Can I make this sauce without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes! If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can replace it with a small amount of soy sauce or skip it altogether. The sauce will still be delicious.

How long can I keep leftover spaghetti sauce in the fridge?

Leftover spaghetti sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor.

Can I add fresh herbs to this sauce?

Absolutely! If you have fresh basil, parsley, or oregano on hand, feel free to add them towards the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Spaghetti Sauce is a flavorful and quick recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and rich, hearty flavors, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting meal fast. Whether you’re making spaghetti or lasagna, this sauce can be used in a variety of dishes and is easily customizable. Plus, it stores and freezes well, so you can enjoy it for days to come!

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