Are you craving a comforting, flavorful spaghetti sauce that tastes better than anything you can buy in a jar? This Bertolli-inspired recipe delivers rich, authentic Italian flavors without the fuss. It's a perfect weeknight dinner solution, quick enough for busy schedules yet satisfying enough to impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest with this easy recipe for a truly delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
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Build the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and serve: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, topped with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips for the Best Bertolli-Inspired Sauce:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your sauce will be directly impacted by the quality of your tomatoes. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes with minimal added ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to customize the sauce to your liking. A pinch of fennel seeds, a bay leaf, or a dash of balsamic vinegar can all add interesting depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
- Add some vegetables: For a heartier sauce, add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
Variations:
- Meat Sauce: Brown 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage before adding the onions and garlic for a meaty twist.
- Vegetarian Sauce: Add a handful of chopped mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra vegetarian flavor.
- Spicy Sauce: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup of sauce and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Bertolli-inspired spaghetti sauce is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal your family will love. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. Enjoy!