Family-Favorite Pasta Sauce
This hearty Italian-style meat sauce has a sweetness that I really love. It is the recipe I use for spaghetti, lasagna and gnocchi, which I bake with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
This hearty Italian-style meat sauce has a sweetness that I really love. It is the recipe I use for spaghetti, lasagna and gnocchi, which I bake with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1 large sweet onion chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 pound bulk italian sausage
- 1 can (6 ounces) italian tomato paste
- hot cooked pasta of your choice
- Carbohydrate 11.82045942767 g
- Cholesterol 43.09127515 mg
- Fat 18.3773764403015 g
- Fiber 1.52093123875252 g
- Protein 9.34053871563172 g
- Saturated Fat 6.47258991239866 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (220g)
- Sodium 562.531615589285 mg
- Sugar 10.2995281889175 g
- Trans Fat 1.04849739412971 g
- Calories 248 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large saucepan, cook the sausage, onion and garlic in oil over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, water, parsley, brown sugar, vinegar and seasonings. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 1-1/2 hours or until flavors are blended.
- Serve with pasta.
- Freeze option: Freeze cooled sauce in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if necessary.
My Family's Go-To Pasta Sauce: A Recipe for Comfort and Connection
As a busy working mom, time is a precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" That's why I rely heavily on recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. This family-favorite pasta sauce fits the bill perfectly. It's a recipe that's been passed down, tweaked and perfected over the years, a testament to the comforting simplicity of great food and the joy of sharing a meal together.
The beauty of this sauce lies in its versatility. It's the base for countless pasta dishes – from classic spaghetti to rich lasagna, even delicate gnocchi. I love the sweet and savory depth of flavor; a hint of brown sugar balances the tangy tomatoes and savory sausage, creating a harmony that pleases everyone at the table. The aroma alone is enough to draw the family in, promising a comforting meal after a long day. It’s more than just a sauce; it's a hug in a bowl, a reminder of simpler times, and a delicious way to connect with loved ones.
The preparation is straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights. While it simmers, I can tackle other tasks – checking emails, helping with homework, or simply enjoying the comforting smell filling my kitchen. The long simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and complex taste that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. And the best part? The leftovers freeze beautifully, providing a quick and easy meal for another night.
This isn't just a recipe; it's a story of family, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together. It’s a recipe that has witnessed countless family gatherings, celebrations, and comforting weeknight dinners. Each simmering pot holds memories, laughter, and the warmth of connection. It’s a recipe I’m happy to share, hoping it brings as much joy and comfort to your family as it has brought to mine.
Beyond the practical aspects, this sauce represents something more. It represents the heart of home, the love poured into each ingredient, the time spent nurturing the flavors to perfection, and most importantly, the sharing of a delicious meal with those I love. It’s a reminder that the simplest things in life, like a bowl of pasta with a lovingly crafted sauce, can be the most meaningful.
So, go ahead, try this recipe. Let the aroma transport you, let the flavors soothe your soul, and let the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal together create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. It's more than just pasta; it's a piece of my heart, and I hope it becomes a piece of yours too.
Ingredients List (for reference):
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 large sweet onion, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 1 can (6 ounces) Italian tomato paste
- Hot cooked pasta of your choice
