homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Avoid browning the garlic, as it may become bitter.

Step 2: Add Tomato Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water.

Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add sugar, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and bay leaf.

Stir well.

If using carrots or bell peppers, add them at this stage.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Once bubbling lightly, reduce heat to low.

Cover partially and simmer for 1½ hours, stirring every 15 to 20 minutes.

This slow cooking process develops rich flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.

Step 5: Add Meat (Optional)

If making a meat sauce, stir in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage during the final 30 minutes of cooking.

Allow the meat to simmer with the sauce so the flavors can blend together.

Step 6: Final Taste Adjustment

Remove the bay leaf.

Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.

Add additional salt, pepper, basil, or sugar according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over freshly cooked spaghetti.

Garnish with chopped parsley, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best Spaghetti Sauce

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