Easy Spaghetti Sauce

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A good homemade spaghetti sauce has a certain kind of magic to it. It fills the kitchen with the rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs and creates the foundation for so many comforting meals. This Easy Spaghetti Sauce is exactly that kind of magic. It’s made from pantry staples, comes together quickly, and tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Whether you’re cooking for a big family dinner or prepping for a week of delicious meals, this sauce delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat—just enough to make every bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Spaghetti Sauce

This sauce is everything a busy cook wants: simple ingredients, little prep time, and endless versatility. It works just as well over spaghetti as it does in lasagna, meatball subs, or baked ziti. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can always have homemade sauce on hand.

What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use for Spaghetti Sauce?

Canned crushed tomatoes are the real star here. They provide body and depth to the sauce without needing to be cooked down forever. If you like a chunkier texture, you can toss in some diced tomatoes as well. For a smoother finish, a quick blend or use of an immersion blender works wonders.

Ingredients for the Easy Spaghetti Sauce

To make a truly satisfying sauce, each ingredient plays its role in creating that perfect balance of flavor.

Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.

Onion gives a savory base and natural sweetness.

Garlic brings a sharp, bold kick that deepens the flavor.

Crushed tomatoes form the heart of the sauce—rich, thick, and flavorful.

Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.

Sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the overall taste.

Italian seasoning gives a herby depth with oregano, basil, and thyme.

Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, totally optional but highly recommended.

Bay leaf lends subtle aromatic complexity.

How To Make the Easy Spaghetti Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

Add tomato paste to the pan and stir it into the onions and garlic. Let it cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Add the bay leaf, bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for at least 20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor gets. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving. If you want a smoother sauce, blend it gently. Otherwise, it’s ready to spoon over your favorite pasta or cool and store for later.

How to Serve and Store Easy Spaghetti Sauce

This recipe makes enough to generously coat about a pound of pasta, feeding 4 to 6 people. Serve it straight over spaghetti, or get creative and use it in casseroles, bakes, or even as a pizza sauce. To store, let it cool completely and keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

What to Serve With Easy Spaghetti Sauce?

Garlic Bread

The classic choice, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp, creamy, and refreshing—a great contrast to the richness of the sauce.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Savory, crispy veggies pair well with saucy pasta.

Meatballs

Homemade or store-bought, they make the sauce even heartier.

Baked Eggplant Slices

Layered with sauce and mozzarella for a delicious meatless option.

Red Wine

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot complements the flavors beautifully.

Grilled Sausage

Adds a smoky, meaty contrast that takes the meal up a notch.

Want More Pasta Sauce Ideas?

If you love this easy spaghetti sauce, here are some other saucy creations you might like:

• Try the Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak for a rich umami twist.
• Looking for something hearty? Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni brings serious comfort.
• Add a kick with Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta if you want bold spice and creaminess.
• Need a lighter touch? Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken is fresh and vibrant.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your sauce turned out. Did you add mushrooms or meat? Blend it smooth or leave it chunky?

I love seeing the delicious ways people make these recipes their own. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all here to make dinner easier and tastier.

Explore beautifully curated meal ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dinner inspiration.

Conclusion

This Easy Spaghetti Sauce recipe is all about simplicity, comfort, and great flavor. It’s fast enough for a weeknight yet flavorful enough for Sunday dinner. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never reach for the jar again.

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