Kay’s Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce

Kay’s Spaghetti and Lasagna Sauce is a versatile, rich, and flavorful homemade sauce that is perfect for both spaghetti and lasagna. With a balance of sweetness and herbs, this sauce is easy to make and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s also customizable—whether you prefer it with lean ground beef or a vegetarian version with olive oil. The secret ingredient? A touch of sugar!

Essential Ingredients

• Stewed tomatoes (28 oz can) – Adds a slightly chunky texture and rich tomato flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can) – Helps create a thick and smooth sauce base.
• Lean ground beef (1 lb) – Provides a hearty, meaty texture (or substitute with olive oil for a vegetarian option).
• Yellow onions (2, chopped) – Adds depth and natural sweetness to the sauce.
• Green bell peppers (2, chopped) – Introduces a subtle crunch and a mild, earthy taste.
• Garlic (5 cloves, chopped) – Essential for an aromatic and bold flavor.
• White sugar (2 tbsp) – Balances acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Dried basil (1 tbsp) – Brings a fragrant, herby touch to the sauce.
• Dried oregano (½ tsp) – Adds a warm, slightly peppery flavor.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Preparation Steps

1. Blend the tomatoes – In a blender, combine the stewed tomatoes and crushed tomatoes. Blend until smooth or leave slightly chunky for more texture.
2. Cook the meat and vegetables – In a large stockpot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Combine and simmer – Pour in the blended tomatoes, reduce the heat to low, and stir in the sugar, basil, and oregano.
4. Let the flavors develop – Allow the sauce to simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season and serve – Before serving, add salt and pepper to taste. Use immediately or store for later

Health Benefits

• Rich in Vitamins & Minerals – Tomatoes provide Vitamin C, potassium, and iron, which support immune function and heart health.
• High in Fiber – The sauce contains vegetables that contribute to healthy digestion.
• Protein-Packed – If made with ground beef, this sauce provides a good source of protein for muscle health.
• Heart-Healthy Option – Opting for the vegetarian version with olive oil offers healthy fats for better heart function.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Spaghetti – Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Lasagna Base – Layer between lasagna sheets, ricotta, and mozzarella for a hearty baked dish.
• Meatball Marinara – Use as a flavorful sauce for homemade meatballs.
• Stuffed Peppers – Mix with rice and ground beef to stuff bell peppers.
• Pizza Sauce Alternative – Spread on a pizza crust for a homemade pizza night!

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers for extra heat.
• Extra Herbs – Try adding fresh parsley, thyme, or bay leaves for more complexity.
• Chunky Vegetable Sauce – Include diced mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for added texture.
• Creamy Version – Stir in a bit of heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a richer sauce.
• Wine-Infused Sauce – Add ¼ cup of red wine while simmering for deeper flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for Later – Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Gently – Warm on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Pro Tips

• Let It Simmer Longer – The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
• Use Fresh Garlic – For the best depth of flavor, use freshly chopped garlic rather than garlic powder.
• Don’t Skip the Sugar – This small addition balances acidity and enhances the overall taste.
• Adjust Thickness – If too thick, add a splash of water or broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 6-7 fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel them before blending.

What’s the best pasta to pair with this sauce?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, rigatoni, and lasagna sheets all work great!

Can I double the recipe?

Of course! This sauce freezes well, so making a big batch is a great time-saver.

How do I make this sauce vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground beef for olive oil or even add lentils for extra protein.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious homemade spaghetti and lasagna sauce with your loved ones

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