italian spaghetti sauce recipe with Toasted Pistachio & Sumac Zing

Name: italian spaghetti sauce recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for sauteing; 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (approx 200g); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes; 0.5 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional; 1 teaspoon ground sumac; 1.5 teaspoons fine sea salt, or to taste; 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; 1 pound spaghetti pasta; 0.5 cup unsalted pistachios, toasted and chopped; 0.25 cup fresh mint or flat-leaf parsley, chopped; 0.5 teaspoon ground sumac, for garnish

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I’ve been searching for an easy, hearty meal that truly satisfies, and this italian spaghetti sauce recipe is my go-to. The rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs filling my kitchen always signals a comforting dinner ahead. Perfect for busy parents and home cooks, this hearty sauce delivers big flavor and nutrition fast. On busy weeknights, I often get this sauce simmering while I’m helping the kids with their homework, making healthy eating simple.

Ingredient Essentials With Health Focus

Crafting a truly memorable italian spaghetti sauce recipe starts with choosing quality components. Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty, family-friendly meal, focusing on both flavor and nutrition:

Olive Oil: 30 ml / 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. This is for sautéing and building a rich foundation.
Lean Ground Beef: 680 g / 1.5 pounds lean ground beef. It adds hearty protein to our sauce. For a lighter, healthy dinner recipe, ground turkey or even lentils are excellent swaps.
Yellow Onion: 1 large (approx. 200g), finely diced. Essential for an aromatic foundation.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Brings pungent, sweet depth to the sauce.
Tomato Paste: 60 g / 2 tablespoons. Cooked tomato paste deepens the overall flavor and color of your sauce.
Tomatoes: 794 g / 28 oz can crushed tomatoes and 411 g / 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes. A blend gives rich flavor and texture. Opt for quality canned varieties, ideally organic ingredients, for the best taste. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a lovely smoky note.
Vegetable Broth: 120 ml / 1/2 cup. Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency; chicken broth or water can also be used.
Herbs & Spices: 5 ml / 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 5 ml / 1 teaspoon dried basil, 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), and 5 ml / 1 teaspoon ground sumac. These create the authentic flavor profile of a classic italian spaghetti sauce. The sumac adds a unique, zesty ‘zing.’
Seasoning: 7.5 ml / 1.5 teaspoons fine sea salt, or to taste, and 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste. Always adjust to your preference.
Spaghetti Pasta: 450 g / 1 pound. The classic companion. For gluten-free dinner ideas or lower carb meals, swap for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
Garnishes: 60 g / 1/2 cup unsalted pistachios (toasted, chopped), 15 g / 1/4 cup fresh mint or flat-leaf parsley (chopped), and 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon ground sumac. These add texture, fresh flavor, and a vibrant finishing touch. I often use flat-leaf parsley if fresh mint isn’t readily available.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Brown the Meat (8-10 minutes): Heat 30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 680 g / 1.5 lbs lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is well browned and no pink remains. It should look crumbly and fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat; this keeps your italian spaghetti sauce recipe from being greasy.
Sauté Aromatics (5-7 minutes): Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The onion should look clear. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; if it starts to brown quickly, lower the heat as burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
Build the Base & Simmer (45-60 minutes): Stir in 60 g / 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to deepen its flavor. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), 5 ml / 1 tsp ground sumac, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, with small bubbles breaking the surface. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the rich flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning (2 minutes): Taste the italian spaghetti sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. The sauce should taste balanced and savory.

Quick Cooking Hacks: To shave off time, use pre-chopped onions and garlic from the grocery store. For the pasta itself, opt for quick-cook spaghetti if you’re in a real rush, though traditional spaghetti gives a better texture for this italian spaghetti sauce recipe.

Avoid Mistakes: Ensure the sauce simmers gently, not boils vigorously, to prevent scorching at the bottom of the pot. Stirring occasionally helps prevent this too.

Best Occasions & Serving Suggestions

This versatile sauce is perfect for so many meals, from cozy weeknight dinners to easy meal prep. It also shines at casual potlucks, making it a reliable choice for any gathering.

Where it fits: Ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for quick high-protein snacks and lunches.
Serving ideas: Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or polenta. Pair with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage & reheating guidance: Store cooled italian spaghetti sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

For busy weeks, I always make a big batch. It’s so handy to pull out a container of this delicious sauce for a quick, hearty lunch that feels homemade.

Functional Benefits of Homemade Italian Spaghetti Sauce

Beyond its incredible flavor, a homemade italian spaghetti sauce offers valuable nutritional benefits for the whole family.

Energy Boost: Provides sustained energy from complex carbs and protein, keeping you fueled throughout your day.
Satiety: Hearty and filling, it helps you feel satisfied longer, which is great for healthy weight management meal prep.
Family-Friendly: A universally loved dish that caters to all palates, making mealtime stress-free for everyone.
Protein Advantage: High-quality protein supports muscle repair and growth, essential for active lifestyles.
How it supports specific goals: A balanced meal for active lifestyles, easily adaptable for healthy dinner recipes and calorie-conscious eating.

Budget & Time Efficiency

Making your own italian spaghetti sauce is a smart choice for both your wallet and your schedule, offering great value.

Prep vs cook time overview: Prep time is typically 10-15 minutes, with a cook time of 30-45 minutes for simmering flavors.
Approximate cost per serving: Expect to spend around $2-4 per serving, depending on your chosen ingredients and any premium selections.
Cost-saving swaps: Use dried herbs instead of fresh, and opt for store-brand canned tomatoes without sacrificing much flavor.
Batch cooking or meal-prep strategies: Double the italian spaghetti sauce recipe for future meals or freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. This saves significant time during busy weekdays.

Ingredient Shopping & Premium Picks

Sourcing quality ingredients elevates your homemade italian spaghetti sauce, enhancing both its taste and nutritional value.

Best sourcing options: Local farmers markets are excellent for fresh produce, while supermarkets reliably cover pantry staples.
When to buy organic vs conventional: Prioritize organic for tomatoes and ground meat if your budget allows for the added cost.
Mentions: Consider online grocery delivery for convenience, or specialty stores for unique Italian ingredients that add authentic depth.

Advanced Tips & Adaptations

Elevate your italian spaghetti sauce or customize it to suit different preferences with these simple, effective adjustments.

Flavor upgrades: Try a splash of red wine while simmering, add a parmesan rind for umami depth, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Adjustments for kids vs gourmet palates: For kids, blend the sauce for a smoother texture. For gourmet palates, add fresh basil at the end or use a mix of heirloom tomatoes.
Allergy-conscious substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for gluten sensitivities, or omit meat and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian italian spaghetti sauce recipe.

FAQs

Got questions about making or enjoying this hearty sauce? Here are some common queries from home cooks.

Can italian spaghetti sauce be prepped ahead for the week?

Yes, absolutely! This italian spaghetti sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep; its flavors actually deepen and improve overnight. Simply cool it completely, then portion and store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

What’s the healthiest substitute for ground beef in this Italian spaghetti sauce?

For a lighter option, ground turkey or lean ground chicken are excellent healthy alternatives. For a vegetarian option, one cup of cooked lentils works wonderfully and adds great texture and plant-based protein.

Is this italian spaghetti sauce recipe good for weight loss diets?

Yes, this recipe can easily fit into weight loss diets. Pair it with vegetable noodles like zucchini spirals or whole wheat pasta. Focus on lean protein and ample vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal.

How can I make this italian spaghetti sauce vegetarian or vegan?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots. For a vegan version, also ensure your Parmesan cheese is plant-based or skip it entirely.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this italian spaghetti sauce recipe?

Certainly! Fresh, ripe tomatoes will give a vibrant flavor. You’ll need about 4-5 pounds of ripe Roma or plum tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and crush them before adding them to the sauce.

Where can I order high-quality tomatoes online for this recipe?

Many online grocers and specialty food stores offer premium canned or jarred tomatoes from reputable brands. For the best depth, I’ve found San Marzano tomatoes, often available online, deliver exceptional flavor and texture for my homemade italian spaghetti sauce.

This easy italian spaghetti sauce recipe is a flavorful, time-saving cornerstone for any home cook, offering a healthy and convenient option for family dinners. Enjoy the rich taste and ease it brings to your table. Pin this recipe now for your next delicious meal prep or family dinner!