Don's Favorite Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

This incredibly simple spaghetti sauce recipe is a family favorite, requested frequently by my husband, Don! I scoured countless recipes before perfecting this one – it's surprisingly unique, bursting with flavor, and freezes beautifully. This versatile recipe is easily customized; add your favorite veggies like garlic, mushrooms, green bell peppers, and basil, or even some Italian sausage for extra richness. While ready in an hour, slow simmering unlocks the full depth of flavor. Get ready to impress your family with this easy, delicious, and unforgettable sauce!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 474.5 kcal
Protein 54g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Don's Favorite Spaghetti Sauce 34

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Don's Favorite Spaghetti Sauce

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How to Make Don's Favorite Spaghetti Sauce

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and brown, breaking it up with a spoon.
  2. Drain off any excess grease from the browned beef.
  3. Add 28 ounces (one 28-ounce can) crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces (one 15-ounce can) tomato sauce, 6 ounces (one 6-ounce can) tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 cup chopped onion to the pot.
  4. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic (optional), 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (optional), 1/2 green bell pepper chopped (optional), and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional). If using Italian sausage, add 1 pound of sweet or hot Italian sausage, removed from casings.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

87 g

Sugar

86g

Fat

40g

Carbs

10g