Nonna’s Secret: A Classic Homemade Italian Pasta Sauce Recipe

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched hills of Italy with this authentic, homemade Italian pasta sauce recipe. This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a journey through generations of family recipes, perfected to deliver the rich, vibrant flavor that only a truly classic Italian pasta sauce can offer. Get ready to experience the depth of flavor from ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and garlic, all simmered to perfection to coat your favorite pasta. This classic Italian pasta sauce is unbelievably easy to make, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Nutrition per serving (approximate): Calories: 250, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 500mg, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 8g, Protein: 6g. *Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This classic Italian pasta sauce starts with a perfectly sautéed onion.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make your classic Italian pasta sauce bitter.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates the heart of your classic Italian pasta sauce.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the classic Italian pasta sauce will become.
5. If using, add the red pepper flakes during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This adds a touch of heat to your classic Italian pasta sauce.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or sugar to your liking. This classic Italian pasta sauce should be perfectly seasoned to complement your pasta.
7. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and serve over your favorite pasta. This classic Italian pasta sauce is delicious with spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Serving Suggestions: This classic Italian pasta sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Add meatballs, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread completes the experience. This classic Italian pasta sauce is also wonderful as a pizza sauce or a base for other Italian dishes.

Notes and Tips: For a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender after cooking. If you don’t have canned crushed tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you may need to cook them down longer to achieve the desired consistency. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of red wine to your classic Italian pasta sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique twist on this classic Italian pasta sauce. Remember, this is your opportunity to personalize this classic Italian pasta sauce recipe, making it your own culinary masterpiece!

This classic Italian pasta sauce recipe is a testament to the simplicity and beauty of Italian cuisine. The delicious flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs are truly unforgettable. Make this recipe today and share the delicious taste of Italy with your family and friends. This classic Italian pasta sauce recipe is sure to become a family favorite!