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Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce

Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce

Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce is a rich, comforting tomato-based sauce featuring savory tomatoes, sweet onions, fragrant garlic, and Italian herbs. Simple to prepare yet deeply flavorful, this versatile and family-friendly sauce can be customized to suit any palate, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces crushed or diced tomatoes (preferably canned, such as San Marzano)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional, for stirring in at the end)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients and create the sauce base.
  3. Simmer and develop flavors: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken naturally.
  4. Finish with fresh basil: Just before serving, tear fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce to add a fresh, aromatic brightness.

Notes

  • Use quality tomatoes like San Marzano or other good-quality canned tomatoes for the richest flavor.
  • Do not rush the simmering process; slow cooking deepens the sauce’s flavor and improves texture.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning gradually throughout cooking to achieve the perfect balance.
  • Use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced for the freshest aroma and flavor.
  • Stir in fresh herbs at the end to keep their flavor vibrant and avoid bitterness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pioneer Woman, spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, Italian sauce, homemade pasta sauce, simple sauce, family-friendly, gluten free