Go Back
homemade Homemade Spaghetti Sauce photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

A simple, flavorful tomato sauce made with sautéed onion, carrot, garlic, herbs, and crushed tomatoes.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup carrot finely grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes 1 large can
  • 6 ounces tomato paste 1 small can
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil torn

Instructions

  • Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped yellow onion and finely grated carrot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste until combined.
  • Add the kosher salt, ground black pepper, dried oregano, and granulated sugar; stir to incorporate.
  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered or partially covered, for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally; add a splash of water if it becomes too thick.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then stir in the torn fresh basil just before serving.

Equipment

  • medium pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Notes

  • Use the best canned tomatoes you have for the best flavor.
  • If you don’t have fresh basil, substitute 2 teaspoons dried basil.
  • If the sauce tastes bitter or scorches, add a pinch of baking soda.