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Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce (Using Canned Tomatoes)

Chunky homemade spaghetti sauce simmering in a pot made with canned tomatoes and simple pantry ingredients
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This easy homemade spaghetti sauce is made with simple pantry staples and canned tomatoes for a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s smooth, well-seasoned, and incredibly versatile—use it for spaghetti, baked pasta dishes, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Keep it meatless or use it as a base for your favorite meat sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil 

  • 1 sweet onion, finely diced 

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed 

  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce 

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with garlic, oregano & basil 

  • 1 tablespoon-1/4 cup sugar, granulated sugar (sugar balances acidity from tomatoes)

  • 2 teaspoons dried basil 

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano – adds warmth and depth

  • ½ teaspoon salt – seasons the sauce

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper – balances and enhances flavor

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

  4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.

  5. Stir in the sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  6. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Equipment

Notes

  • Simmer longer for deeper flavor.

  • Blend the sauce if you prefer a smoother texture.

  • Use this sauce as a base for meat sauce, baked spaghetti, or lasagna.

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://pantryandspoon.com/easy-homemade-spaghetti-sauce-using-canned-tomatoes/