Prepare to unlock a generations-old culinary treasure that will transform your pasta nights forever! This isn't just another spaghetti sauce—it's a heartwarming recipe passed down through family kitchens, bursting with rich, slow-simmered flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, Grandma Dora's legendary sauce promises to elevate your Italian cuisine game and create memories around the dinner table that will last a lifetime.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Peel and finely chop the onion, ensuring uniform small pieces for even flavor distribution.
- Mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press, releasing their aromatic oils.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, allowing the pan to warm gradually.
- Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan, then sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the two cans of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Add sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to incorporate all seasonings.
- Reduce heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer slowly, uncovered, for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, fold in the freshly chopped basil leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce rest for 5-10 minutes before serving over your favorite pasta.
Tips
- Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base.
- Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic—patience develops deeper, more complex flavors.
- Low and slow is the secret to this sauce: maintain a gentle simmer to prevent burning and allow ingredients to meld together.
- Fresh basil added at the end provides a bright, aromatic finish—don't skip this step!
- For an extra rich flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering process.
- This sauce freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and store for future quick meals.
- Let the sauce rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully develop and integrate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 41kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
