Are you tired of jarred spaghetti sauce that tastes…well, jarred? Do you crave the rich, vibrant flavor of a truly homemade sauce, but think it's too much work? Think again! This Mrs. Wages spaghetti sauce recipe is surprisingly easy, unbelievably delicious, and will quickly become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire. Using the convenience of Mrs. Wages seasoning, we elevate simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Get ready to experience spaghetti night like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 packet Mrs. Wages Tomato Sauce Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti or your favorite pasta
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. This simple step builds a delicious foundation for your sauce.
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Mrs. Wages seasoning mix, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
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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, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become. Consider letting it simmer for up to an hour for the best results. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth of taste that's hard to replicate.
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Season and Serve: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want a touch more oregano, basil, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spaghetti Sauce:
- Don't rush the simmer: The longer the sauce simmers, the better it tastes. Patience is key here!
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial. Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use them! They will add a brighter, more intense flavor to your sauce.
- Add some meat: For a heartier sauce, add ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs. Brown the meat before adding the other ingredients. This is a great way to customize your healthy meals.
Variations:
- Spicy Sauce: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Sauce: Leave out the meat and add some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the ingredients and portion size, but a single serving of this sauce generally contains approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Mrs. Wages spaghetti sauce recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a little bit of time can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. Enjoy!