Pasta sauce recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of pasta sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple tomato sauce or something fancier, this easy pasta recipe is perfect for you. All you need are really simple pantry ingredients that you probably have at home. The sauce comes together in just a few minutes, and it’s the perfect addition to any pasta dish

There are many different recipes for pasta sauce, but the most basic ingredients are tomatoes, onion, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. The herbs can vary depending on what you have on hand or what you prefer, but common choices include basil, oregano, and thyme.

Some variations also include red bell peppers, carrots, celery, and ground meat. The proportion of these ingredients varies depending on the recipe, but they all work together to create a delicious, flavorful sauce that can be used on a variety of pasta dishes. While there are many store-bought varieties of sauce for pasta available, making your own pasta sauce from scratch is always best.

Other variations of pasta sauce recipes may include ground beef or sausage for a heartier sauce, however, a simple pasta sauce recipe can be made with just tomatoes and spices and doesn’t have to include meat for a lighter sauce.

If you’re looking for a delicious and best pasta sauce recipe, you can try this one. It’s easy to make and perfect for use with any type of pasta including regular spaghetti. All you need is some basic ingredients like whole canned tomatoes or garden fresh tomatoes, the other ingredients are probably laid up in the pantry. Just follow the instructions and you’ll be ready to enjoy the best pasta sauce recipe in no time. You can adjust the flavors to your own liking by adding different herbs or spices. Just be sure to use good-quality olive oil to make sure the sauce is flavorful.

Related: Chicken with spaghetti

What sauce is best for pasta?

There are different sauces for pasta, the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you like a red sauce for your pasta, you might want to try a red sauce, like marinara, arrabbiata, or puttanesca sauces, or just a simple tomato-based sauce with some extra seasonings. For a more robust flavor, try a meat-based sauce like bolognese.

If you prefer to go for a lighter sauce, you could try a simple pesto sauce. There are also creamy sauces for pasta like alfredo sauce or carbonara sauce if you’re looking for something truly indulgent. But there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a sauce for your pasta dish. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different types until you find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.

Also See: Oven roasted chicken thighs

Difference between pasta sauce and tomato sauce?

Pasta sauce and tomato sauce are both made from tomatoes, but the main difference between the two is the addition of seasonings. Pasta sauce is usually thicker and has more herbs and spices than tomato sauce. Tomato sauce is simpler in taste and is used more as a base for other ingredients or recipes. It can be used in pasta dishes but it is commonly used on pizzas, stews, and sauces and also as a base for casserole recipes.

Ingredients for pasta sauce recipe

  • 2 cups of crushed tomatoes, (canned tomatoes will work too)
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, fleshy ground
  • 1 and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves to garnish
Ingredients for homemade pasta sauce recipe
Ingredients for homemade pasta sauce

What is in homemade pasta sauce recipe?

Crushed tomatoes

Tomatoes are a key ingredient in pasta sauce. They provide natural sweetness and acidity that balances out the other flavors in the sauce, they also help to thicken the sauce. I made this pasta sauce with fresh tomatoes that I crushed at home, you can get a can of crushed tomatoes from the store and use it to make yours. Whether you use canned tomatoes or regular tomatoes to make this sauce, your sauce will still turn out nice and flavorful.

Carrots

Carrot can be used in pasta sauce even though it is not a common ingredient. Carrot adds some sweetness and texture to the sauce. If you decide to use carrot in your pasta sauce, make sure to chop or shred it into small pieces so that it cooks evenly and blends with the other ingredients.

Chicken stock

Chicken stock will give your sauce a boost of savory flavor. Just be sure to use low-sodium broth so that your sauce doesn’t end up too salty. You can also use vegetable stock if you want to keep it vegetarian.

Garlic and onion

Garlic gives the sauce a nice pungent flavor, while the onion adds a bit of sweetness.

Spices and herbs

I used spices like smoked paprika and black pepper, and chili flakes to help enhance the flavor of this recipe. Each of these spices has a different flavor that can help to improve the overall taste of the pasta sauce. Both the dried and fresh herbs are essential for giving the sauce an herbal flavor.

Olive oil

Olive oil is also a key ingredient in many pasta sauce recipes. It adds flavor and depth of flavor to the sauce; make sure to use quality extra virgin olive oil for your sauce.

Salt

It enhances the flavor of the other ingredients and helps to bring out their natural sweetness. Just remember to start with a small amount and add more as needed.

How to make pasta sauce recipe

To make a delicious pasta sauce, start by heating up olive oil in a deep pot or pan.

Add 1 cup of chopped onions to the hot oil and sauté for 3 minutes, make sure to stir this intermittently to prevent it from scorching.

Sauteeing onions in oil for pasta sauce recipe
Sauteeing onions in oil

Go in with finely chopped carrots and minced garlic, stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Adding chopped carrots to pasta sauce recipe help to enhance the sweetness and flavor of the sauce
Adding carrots to the sauce for pasta to help enhance the sweetness and flavor of the sauce.

Add crushed tomatoes to the content and stir to combine.

Making pasta sauce recipe with crushed tomatoes
Making sauce for pasta with crushed tomatoes

Season the sauce with dried oregano, red chili flakes, smoked paprika, crushed black pepper, sugar, and kosher salt. Give it a nice stir to combine.

Adding seasonings to pasta sauce recipe to enhance the taste
Adding seasonings to pasta sauce to enhance the taste

Add ½ cup of chicken stock to it and mix again, cover with a lid, and lower the heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 30 minutes, until most of the water has reduced.

Chicken stock is added to the pasta sauce recipe to help elevate the taste
Chicken stock is added to pasta sauce to help elevate the taste

Make sure to stir it from time to time and add more water or stock if necessary.

Making of pasta sauce from scratch
Make sure to stir the sauce after adding the stock to incorporate it well

Get back to the sauce to check; the sauce should have thickened up already, give it a stir, and use your hand to chop up some fresh basil and add to it.

Simmering of pasta sauce to create a delicious taste and more intense flavor
Simmer the pasta sauce a bit longer to help build a good flavor profile

Taste for salt and pepper and add more seasonings if needed. Stir it again and bring it off the stove. Your easy pasta sauce recipe is ready!

Adding fresh basil to a pasta sauce recipe helps improve the flavor
Add some fresh herbs to the sauce for a beautiful finishing
Homemade pasta sauce recipe
Easy pasta sauce recipe

Is pasta sauce the same as spaghetti sauce?

Spaghetti sauce is a type of pasta sauce, but not all pasta sauces are spaghetti sauces. Spaghetti sauce is typically a red sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It is often used on top of Italian dishes like spaghetti and lasagna. Other types of pasta sauces include Alfredo, pesto, and carbonara. These sauces could have a variety of different ingredients in them.

Is pasta sauce the same as pizza sauce?

Sauce for pasta is not the same as pizza sauce. Pizza sauce is a simple sauce made from uncooked tomato puree, it is commonly seasoned with a few basic ingredients like salt and pepper and it’s added to the pizza dough to cook together with the pizza.

Pasta sauce is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs. It is usually more flavorful than pizza sauce because it has more spices and herbs in it. So while they might share some similarities, there are also some distinct differences between these two types of sauce.

What is Italian pasta sauce called?

Italian pasta sauce is typically called ragù. Ragù is a hearty, meat-based sauce that is typically made with beef, pork, or veal. It is often slow-cooked for hours to allow the flavors to meld together. It is typically served over pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle, spaghetti, lasagna, and ziti. It can also be used as a dipping sauce or as a base for other dishes.

What is the difference between a marinara sauce and a pasta sauce?

Marinara sauce is a type of pasta sauce that is made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It is typically used on pasta dishes like spaghetti and pizza. Whereas pasta sauce can be made with a variety of different ingredients. The most common type of sauce for pasta is tomato-based, but there are also cream-based sauces, meat-based sauces, and vegetable-based sauces.

How to make pasta sauce thicker

One way to make pasta sauce thicker is to add tomato paste. Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomato that adds body and thickness to your sauce. Another way to thicken your sauce is to cook it down. This means simmering the sauce on low heat for a longer period of time. This will allow some of the water to evaporate, resulting in a thicker sauce.

What to add to pasta sauce

There are many spices that can be added to pasta sauce. The most common spices are garlic, onion, basil, and oregano. Also, there are many other spices that can be used to give the sauce a unique flavor. Some other options include red pepper flakes, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Some people also like to add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of spices to find the perfect flavor for your sauce.

Finally, you can add some starches to your sauce to help thicken it up. Examples of starches include cornstarch, arrowroot powder, and tapioca flour. Just mix a spoonful of cornstarch or any of the starches with an equal amount of cold water and stir it into the pasta sauce. Let it cook for a minute or two until the sauce has thickened up. This will help to absorb some of the liquid and make the sauce thicker. Make sure to add a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I use pasta sauce for pizza?

You can use pasta sauce for a delicious pizza topping. It is a great way to add some extra flavor to your pizza. Simply spread the sauce on top of the dough and then add your favorite toppings. To prevent your pizza from becoming soggy, make sure to choose a sauce that is thicker in consistency.

How long does pasta sauce last in the fridge?

Pasta sauce can last in the fridge for up to two weeks. However, this varies depending on the ingredients used in the sauce. If you want your sauce for pasta to last longer, you can freeze it. Frozen pasta sauce will last for 3 to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

What are the different types of pasta sauces?

  1. Carbonara sauce
  2. Marinara sauce
  3. Pesto sauce
  4. Alfredo sauce
  5. White wine sauce
  6. Bolognese sauce
  7. Cream sauce for pasta
  8. White pasta sauce
  9. Red sauce pasta
  10. Garlic butter sauce for pasta
  11. Mushroom sauce
  12. Meat sauce pasta
  13. Lemon pasta sauce
  14. Butternut squash sauce
  15. Cheese sauce
  16. Marsala sauce for pasta
  17. Roasted red pepper sauce for pasta
  18. Tomato sauce

Carbonara sauce

Carbonara is a type of pasta sauce made with eggs, pancetta, and parmesan cheese. The sauce is made by first cooking the bacon in a pan until crisp. Egg yolks are whisked together with the cheese, and the mixture is then poured over the cooked pasta and pancetta and tossed to coat for all the flavors to be absorbed in the same pan. The sauce is usually made with pancetta or guanciale, but bacon can be used as a substitute. The most important ingredient in carbonara is the pancetta, which is a type of cured pork. The pork gives the sauce its signature smoky flavor.

Marinara sauce

Marinara sauce is a tomato-based sauce that is traditionally made with fresh or canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, and basil. It is usually seasoned with basil, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. The sauce is simmered for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. It is typically used on pasta dishes, but can also be used as a base for casseroles, on pizzas, or as a dipping sauce.

Pesto sauce

Pesto sauce is traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Some people also add spinach or other greens to the sauce. The ingredients are blended together to create a thick, flavorful sauce that can be used on a variety of dishes. Pesto sauce can be used on pasta, pizza, sandwiches, chicken, fish, or vegetables. It can also be used as a dip for bread or crackers.

Alfredo sauce

Alfredo sauce is a classic Italian pasta sauce that goes well with pasta, chicken, and vegetables. It is typically made with butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. The sauce is seasoned with salt and pepper. Once these ingredients are well combined, they create a rich and creamy sauce that is perfect for pasta. Some recipes might call for garlic, onion, wine, and herbs. The sauce can also be used as a dip or spread on other dishes.

White wine pasta sauce

White wine pasta sauce is made with white wine, butter, and parmesan cheese. The wine adds acidity and flavor to the sauce, while the butter and cheese help to thicken it. The sauce is then flavored with garlic, salt, and pepper. Other ingredients may be added as well, depending on the recipe. This sauce is typically used on lighter pasta dishes, such as those made with chicken or seafood.

Bolognese sauce

Bolognese sauce, also known as ragù alla bolognese, is a meat-based sauce originating from Bologna, Italy. The sauce is typically made with minced beef or pork, tomatoes, onions, carrots, herbs, and wine. It is often used as a pasta sauce but can also be used as a base for other dishes such as lasagna or minestrone soup. This sauce can be found in many Italian restaurants.

Cream sauce for pasta

Cream sauce is a type of creamy sauce made with cream, milk, parmesan cheese, and parsley. It also includes other ingredients like garlic, onion, and spices. The sauce is thick and rich, making it perfect for coating pasta or using it as a dip for vegetables.

White pasta sauce

White pasta sauce is also known as bechamel sauce is made from milk, butter, and flour. The milk, flour, and butter are combined to create a roux, which is then used to thicken the sauce. Sometimes nutmeg, garlic, or other spices are added to give the sauce an amazing flavor. 

Red sauce pasta

Red sauce pasta is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, the tomato base gives the sauce its characteristic red color. Some versions also include meat, such as ground beef or sausage. It is a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down depending on your preference. Red pasta sauce goes well with all types of pasta.

Garlic butter sauce for pasta

This sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients: butter, garlic, and parsley. You can also add a little bit of parmesan, salt, and pepper to taste. This sauce can be used on all types of pasta, including spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne pasta.

Mushroom pasta sauce

Mushroom pasta sauce is made of mushrooms, onions, garlic, olive oil, cream, and white wine. Some recipes call for grated cheese but it can also be made without it as well. It is a thick and creamy sauce that is perfect for coating pasta. The mushrooms add a rich flavor to the sauce, while the onions and garlic give it a bit of sweetness. The olive oil keeps the sauce from being too heavy and the wine adds a pleasant acidity.

Meat sauce pasta

Typically, meat sauce pasta is made with beef, pork, or lamb. The meat is browned in a little bit of oil, then the other ingredients are added and simmered for a while to allow the flavors to meld. Other ingredients may be added as well, such as onions, garlic, tomato sauce, spices, and herbs. Once the sauce is finished, it is typically served over cooked pasta. This dish is hearty and filling, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ground meat or sausage.

Lemon pasta sauce

Lemon pasta sauce is made of a few simple ingredients- lemon juice, olive oil, butter, garlic, parmigiana, and salt. This sauce is light and refreshing, perfect for summertime pasta dishes. The acidity of the lemon juice brightens up the flavor of the pasta and the garlic adds a nice depth of flavor while olive oil helps to smooth out the sauce and make it more palatable. A little salt brings out all the flavors and makes the sauce perfectly seasoned.

Butternut squash pasta sauce

Butternut squash pasta sauce is made from pureed roasted butternut squash, The sauce also contains onions, garlic, olive oil, and vegetable or chicken broth. This sauce has a creamy consistency and a slightly sweet taste due to the addition of squash. It’s a simple but flavorful sauce that’s perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta.

Cheese sauce

Cheese sauce is made of cheese, milk, and butter. It is usually a very thick and creamy pasta sauce. The most common type of cheese used for cheese sauce is cheddar cheese, although other types can be used as well. This sauce is not only great on pasta but can be used as a dipping sauce for vegetables.

Marsala sauce for pasta

Marsala sauce is a type of Italian sauce made with Marsala wine, broth, mushrooms,s and spices. It is commonly used as a finishing sauce for pasta dishes. The wine gives the sauce a unique flavor that pairs well with many different types of pasta. Marsala sauce can be made with either red or white Marsala wine depending on one’s preference.

Roasted red pepper sauce for pasta

Roasted red pepper pasta sauce is made of roasted red peppers, olive oil, garlic, basil, and sometimes with cream. The roasted red peppers give the sauce a sweet and smoky flavor. The peppers are roasted in the oven until they’re soft and then they’re blended into a smooth sauce. This sauce is perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables.

Tomato sauce

A simple tomato sauce is made of tomatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, and salt. The ingredients are simmered together until the sauce is thickened. Additional herbs like basil and oregano can be added to give it a more intense flavor. Tomato sauce can be used on pasta, as a dip, or as a base for other recipes.

Pasta sauce recipe

This homemade pasta sauce recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious, hearty sauce that is perfect for any pasta dish. The key to this recipe is to simmer the sauce for a long time to allow the flavors to meld together. This results in a deep, rich flavor that can't be beaten. The other secret ingredient in this easy pasta sauce recipe is to use of good-quality crushed tomatoes. This ensures that the sauce has a bright, and fresh flavor.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy pasta sauce recipe, Pasta sauce recipe
Servings: 5
Calories: 130kcal
Cost: 5

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes canned tomatoes will work too
  • 2 medium chopped carrots
  • 1 medium red onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp red chili flakes
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • ½ tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves to garnish

Instructions

  • To make a delicious pasta sauce, start by heating up olive oil in a deep pot or pan.
  • Add 1 cup of chopped onions to the hot oil and sauté for 3 minutes, make sure to stir this intermittently to prevent it from scorching.
    stir frying onion for pasta sauce recipe
  • Go in with finely chopped carrots and minced garlic, stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
    Adding of carrots in pasta sauce recipe
  • Season the sauce with dried oregano, red chili flakes, smoked paprika, crushed black pepper, sugar, and kosher salt. Give it a nice stir to combine.
    Seasoning of pasta sauce recipe with spices and herbs for flavor
  • Add ½ cup of chicken stock to it and mix again, cover, and lower the heat. Bring the pasta sauce to a gentle simmer for 30 minutes, until most of the water has reduced. Make sure to stir it from time to time and add more water or stock if necessary.
    How to make pasta sauce at home
  • Get back to the sauce to check, you can see it has thickened up already, give it a stir, and use your hand to chop up some fresh basil and add to it.
    Cooking of pasta sauce until thickened
  • Taste for salt and pepper and add more if needed. Stir it again and bring it off the stove. Your delicious pasta sauce recipe is ready!
    Homemade pasta sauce recipe

Video

Notes

Can you freeze pasta sauce?

You can freeze pasta sauce. Once it’s cooled, transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid and store it for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight before reheating it on the stove.

Is pasta sauce gluten-free?

Most tomato-based sauces are gluten-free, especially when the sauce is prepared at home with healthy ingredients. If you are buying your sauce from the store have in mind that wheat is a common thickening agent in most pasta sauces hence the sauce may contain wheat or other thickening agents.
You will also want to check the labels for cream-based sauces or those with unknown ingredients. When in doubt, you can always make your own pasta sauce at home with simple, gluten-free ingredients.

What to do with leftover pasta sauce

Leftover pasta sauce is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in many different ways.
One option is to freeze the sauce and use it later. This can be helpful if you want to make a quick meal but don’t have time to make a sauce from scratch.
Another option is to use it as a dip for bread and chips or add cooked vegetables. You can add it to soups or stews to give them more d delicious flavor. Also, you could even use it as a topping for pizza or use it to make a simple pasta dish or a casserole.

How long does homemade pasta sauce last

Homemade pasta sauce can actually last quite a while when stored properly. For example, if you put your sauce in an airtight container and store it in the fridge, it can last up to two weeks. And if you put it in the freezer, it can last for several months. When ready to use it, just leave it in the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat it up on the stove until it’s warm. So next time you make a batch of pasta sauce, don’t be afraid to make extra, it will keep in the fridge or freezer for a long time until you need it.

How to can pasta sauce

Canning pasta sauce is a great way to preserve it for long-term storage. Plus, it makes it easy to grab a jar of pasta sauce when you need it for a recipe. In case you made a really large batch of it and you are thinking of canning it below are a few steps on how to can your sauce.
  • To can pasta sauce, you’ll need to sterilize the canning jars with the lid by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
  • Then, cook the sauce according to the recipe above until it thickens up.
  • Once it’s finished cooking, cool it and carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
  • After filling the jars, be sure to wipe the rims of the jars clean before screwing on the lids.
  • Finally, place the jars in a boiling water bath for 20- 30 minutes. Once they’re done processing.
  • Remove from the canner and allow them to cool completely before storing.

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta sauce recipe, look no further than this homemade pasta sauce recipe. It is made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a few other seasonings. This flavorful sauce is perfect for any pasta dish; best of all, it only takes a few minutes to make! This recipe makes enough for 5 people, but can easily be doubled or tripled if necessary.

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