Transform dinner in just 20 minutes with this All-Purpose Quick Spaghetti Sauce—a versatile, flavor-packed recipe perfect for busy weeknights! Made with pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and aromatic herbs, this sauce strikes the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, thanks to a touch of sugar and bold spices like oregano and basil. Sautéed onions and garlic create a rich, fragrant base, while optional red pepper flakes lend a subtle kick of heat. Customize the consistency with a splash of water and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Whether served over classic spaghetti, layered in lasagna, or used as a dipping sauce, this homemade spaghetti sauce is your new go-to for effortless, delicious meals that everyone will love. Ideal for pasta lovers and meal-preppers alike, it’s a kitchen essential you’ll keep coming back to.
Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in up to 1/2 cup of water to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if using.
Serve immediately over spaghetti or your favorite pasta, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
487 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2449 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.6 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.5 g | ||
| Protein | 9.2 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 7.4 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 2090 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.