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Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce

Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce

Pioneer Woman’s Spaghetti Sauce is a rich, hearty, and comforting pasta sauce bursting with vibrant tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and subtle spices. Simple to prepare and versatile in use, it delivers slow-simmered Italian flavor with minimal effort, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 pound ground beef, sausage, or turkey (for meaty upgrade)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini (for vegetarian version)
  • Fresh basil and parsley, chopped (for herbaceous twist)
  • 1/4 cup red wine (for wine infusion)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent to form the aromatic base of the sauce.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in canned crushed tomatoes, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Stir thoroughly, combining all ingredients.
  3. Simmer to Develop Flavor: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process thickens the sauce and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
  4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and modify salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Add any optional ingredients such as fresh herbs or cooked meats now. Stir well before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Do not rush the simmering process to allow natural sweetness and herb flavors to develop.
  • Always use fresh minced garlic instead of powders for vibrant aroma and taste.
  • A pinch of brown sugar helps counteract tomato acidity without making the sauce sweet.
  • Letting the sauce rest before serving enhances its flavor even more.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spaghetti sauce, Pioneer Woman, tomato sauce, homemade pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, easy pasta sauce, gluten free sauce