Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Discover the secrets to Nonna's legendary spaghetti sauce! This authentic Old World Italian recipe simmers for hours, developing a rich, complex flavor that will transport you to Italy. Perfect with spaghetti, your favorite Italian sausage, or juicy meatballs. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a thick, flavorful sauce that's even better the next day!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 205 mins
Calories 158.6 kcal
Protein 11g
Rating Be the first
Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce 43

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce

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How to Make Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce

  1. In a large stockpot over medium-low heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté 1 large onion (chopped) for about 4 minutes. Add 4 cloves of garlic (minced) and cook for 2 more minutes.
  2. Pour in 28 ounces (794ml) of crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces (425ml) of tomato sauce, and 8 ounces (227ml) of tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. After 2 1/2 hours, stir in 1/2 cup of dry red wine (such as Chianti). Continue to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. The sauce will be thinner on the first day. If using meat (about 1 pound Italian sausage or 1.5 pounds of meatballs), add it during step 4 and stir frequently throughout the cooking process. The sauce will thicken as it simmers and will be even richer the next day.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

26 g

Sugar

38g

Fat

5g

Carbs

8g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce?

Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce takes about 220 minutes from start to finish — roughly 15 minutes to prepare and 205 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce?

Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce has approximately 158.6 calories per serving, with about 11 g protein, 8 g carbohydrates and 8 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce?

The key ingredients for Old World Italian Spaghetti Sauce are Tomato Paste, Tomato Puree, Crushed Tomatoes, Garlic Cloves, Onion, Extra Virgin Olive Oil. See the full list with measurements above.

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