Imagine a rich and aromatic spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove for 12 hours, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents that draw everyone to the table. This slow-cooked spaghetti sauce is not just a recipe; it’s a labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into a deep, robust flavor that elevates any pasta dish.
The secret to this amazing sauce lies in the long cooking time, allowing the flavors of the tomatoes, herbs, and spices to meld beautifully. Perfect for a Sunday family dinner or meal prep for the week, this sauce is versatile and can be used in various dishes beyond just spaghetti.
The Art of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a time-honored method that brings out the best in ingredients, allowing them to meld and develop rich flavors.
When it comes to preparing a comforting spaghetti sauce, this technique transforms everyday components into a dish that warms the soul.
The lengthy simmering process breaks down the tomatoes and melds the spices, resulting in a thick, hearty sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients that Matter
The beauty of this spaghetti sauce lies in its simplicity.
Using ripe tomatoes as the base, along with fresh herbs and spices, creates a vibrant flavor profile.
Onions and garlic are essential aromatics, contributing depth and richness to the sauce.
With just a few quality ingredients, the end result is nothing short of magical.
Aromatics and Their Role
The foundation of any great sauce starts with aromatics.
In this recipe, onions and garlic are sautéed to create a fragrant base that enhances the overall flavor.
Cooking them until soft ensures their natural sweetness is released, setting the stage for the tomatoes and herbs to shine.
Simmering to Perfection
The true secret lies in the long cooking time.
Letting the sauce simmer for up to twelve hours allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating layers of taste that can’t be achieved in a quick-cook sauce.
This method not only thickens the sauce but also develops a rich, velvety texture that clings to pasta beautifully.
Garnishing for a Fresh Finish
Once the sauce is finished simmering, serving it over a plate of spaghetti is just the beginning.
Fresh basil leaves add a touch of brightness and color, providing a delightful contrast to the rich sauce.
A simple garnish can elevate the dish, making it visually appealing and even more flavorful.
Versatility Beyond Spaghetti
This spaghetti sauce is not just limited to pasta dishes.
It can be used as a base for lasagna or served with meatballs for an Italian classic.
Its robust flavor makes it an excellent addition to various dishes, proving that this sauce is a staple for any home cook.
The Ultimate Slow-Cooked Spaghetti Sauce
This 12-hour spaghetti sauce is a hearty blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and savory spices, slowly simmered to perfection. The result is a thick, velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta.
Enjoy a sauce that’s both sweet and slightly tangy, with hints of garlic and onion that complement the rich tomato base.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Slow Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-12 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve over your choice of pasta, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 hours
- Total Time: 12 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g