counter create hit
B102

My Grandma’s Spaghetti Sauce

by
Pin
Share

Grandma’s Classic Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

A Hearty, Flavorful Sauce for Any Occasion

There’s nothing quite like the smell of spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove, filling your home with comforting aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and Italian spices. This recipe, passed down from my grandma, has been a family favorite for generations. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for serving over your favorite pasta. With a blend of Italian sausage, ground beef, and a medley of tomatoes, this sauce will elevate your pasta nights to a whole new level.

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a cozy dinner, or meal prepping for the week, my grandma’s spaghetti sauce is a recipe that will never fail to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe, along with some helpful tips and answers to common questions.

Ingredients for My Grandma’s Spaghetti Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to create this robust and flavorful sauce:

Tomato Base

  • 4 cans tomato sauce (14.5 oz each)
  • 1 can stewed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
  • 2 cups water

Proteins

  • 2 packages mild Italian sausage (optional: use one mild and one hot for extra spice)
  • 2 lbs ground hamburger

Vegetables & Flavorings

  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 Tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 can mushrooms, drained (4 oz; optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Hamburger

  • Brown the hamburger: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned.
  • Drain the fat: Remove the cooked beef from the skillet, draining off any excess grease. Set aside.

2. Cooking the Italian Sausage

  • Remove sausage from casing: If your sausage is in links, carefully cut away the casings and break the sausage into smaller chunks.
  • Brown the sausage: In the same skillet, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain the fat and set aside.

3. Combining Ingredients in a Large Pot

  • Add the tomato base: In a large stockpot, combine the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Stir until smooth.
  • Incorporate the proteins: Add the cooked ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot.
  • Mix in vegetables: Add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms (if using).
  • Season the sauce: Stir in the beef bouillon cubes, Italian seasoning, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmering the Sauce

  • Bring to a boil: Heat the sauce over medium-high heat until it starts to boil.
  • Reduce and simmer: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the sauce cook for at least 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
See also  Zuppa Toscana Recipe

5. Serving the Sauce

  • Prepare pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Spaghetti, penne, or linguine all pair wonderfully with this sauce.
  • Serve and enjoy: Ladle the sauce generously over your pasta, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Sauce

  1. Choose Quality Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. If possible, opt for brands that have a reputation for rich, sweet tomato products.
  2. Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a spicier sauce, substitute one package of mild Italian sausage with a hot version or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  3. Let It Simmer: The key to deep, rich flavors is simmering the sauce for a long time. Don’t rush this step!
  4. Experiment with Add-Ins: Love veggies? Add finely chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra nutrition. Prefer a smoky twist? Add a splash of smoked paprika.
  5. Make It Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel about 6-8 medium-sized tomatoes. Blend them to replace the tomato sauce and stewed tomatoes. You may need to adjust the seasonings to balance the flavor.

2. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and hamburger. Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant for a hearty texture. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes.

3. What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Traditional spaghetti works perfectly, but this sauce is versatile and pairs well with penne, rigatoni, or even lasagna sheets for a baked dish.

4. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If your sauce feels too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a longer time. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the sauce.

5. Can I add wine to this recipe?

Absolutely! Add ½ cup of red wine during the simmering process for a richer, more complex flavor.

6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, divide the sauce into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

With this detailed recipe and tips, you’re now ready to bring my grandma’s beloved spaghetti sauce to your table. It’s a timeless dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking! 🍝

Pin
Share