This simple homemade spaghetti sauce is packed with flavor and easy to make. Just grab some fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and you’ll have a tasty sauce ready to can!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes like Roma or plum are ideal for this sauce due to their low moisture content. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned crushed tomatoes. Just skip the blanching step!
Onion: A large onion adds depth to your sauce. If you’re in a pinch, you can use shallots for a sweeter flavor or even onion powder (1 tablespoon) if fresh onions aren’t on hand.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a rich flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder (1 teaspoon) can work, but fresh is always better for that aromatic kick!
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but feel free to swap it with vegetable oil or even butter if you want a bit of richness. Just keep an eye on the heat level to avoid smoking.
Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your sauce! If you have fresh basil, thyme, or parsley, use those to replace dried ones. Adjust quantities to taste, as fresh herbs are more potent.
How Do You Get The Right Consistency for Your Sauce?
Achieving the perfect consistency for spaghetti sauce requires a gentle simmer. Start by crushing your tomatoes; this determines the thickness. If your sauce is too thick during cooking, add a bit of water or vegetable broth.
- Begin by boiling the sauce to incorporate flavors and thicken naturally.
- Reduce heat to a gentle simmer for at least 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- If the sauce is still too thick, gradually add a little water or broth until you reach a consistency you like.
- Remember, the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t overdo it!
Following these tips will help you create a sauce that has just the right texture, perfect for any pasta dish or topping! Enjoy your homemade creation!
Easy Homemade Canned Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 10 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum tomatoes work well)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (for thicker sauce)
Additional Supplies:
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (optional, for consistency)
- Canning supplies: sterilized jars, lids, and a large pot for processing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare the ingredients and a total of 1-2 hours for cooking the sauce. Plus, you’ll need an additional 35-40 minutes for processing the jars in a water bath. So, set aside around 2.5 to 3 hours for the entire process from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. To peel them easily, score an “X” at the bottom of each tomato. Blanch your tomatoes in boiling water for about 30-60 seconds, or until the skins begin to loosen. Then, quickly transfer the tomatoes to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process, and peel off the skins once they are cool enough to handle.
2. Chop and Crush:
After peeling, core the tomatoes and crush them by hand or with a food processor. You can choose to make the sauce as chunky or as smooth as you like!
3. Cook the Sauce Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pot and stir well. Add in the salt, pepper, sugar (if you choose), oregano, basil, thyme (or Italian seasoning), and parsley. For a thicker sauce, mix in the tomato paste. If the sauce looks too thick, feel free to add some water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken and for the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
As your sauce nears completion, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed—add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs if you like! It’s all about your personal preference.
7. Prepare for Canning:
While the sauce cooks, sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a high-heat cycle in the dishwasher.
8. Fill the Jars:
Once your sauce is ready and the jars are sterilized, carefully ladle the hot sauce into the sterilized jars. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Make sure to wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal.
9. Seal and Process:
Place the lids and screw bands on the jars. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35-40 minutes to properly preserve the sauce and ensure safety.
10. Cool and Store:
After processing, carefully remove the jars from the pot and let them cool completely on a towel or rack undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Once cool, check that the seals are tight (the lids should not flex up and down). Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, where they will last for up to one year.
Enjoy your delicious homemade canned spaghetti sauce on pasta, pizza, or any dish that calls for rich tomato goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with canned crushed tomatoes. Just skip the blanching and peeling steps, and use about the same amount (10 pounds of fresh = about 10-12 cans of 14-15 oz canned tomatoes).
How Long Will Homemade Canned Spaghetti Sauce Keep?
Your homemade spaghetti sauce will last for up to one year when stored in a cool, dark place. Always check for a proper seal on the lids, as any unsealed jars should be used immediately.
Can I Make Adjustments to the Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the salt, herbs, or spices to your taste. You can also add red pepper flakes for spice or other herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for different flavor profiles. Just remember to taste as you go!
What If My Sauce is Too Thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, simply add a little water or vegetable broth while simmering, stirring until you achieve your preferred consistency. Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed.