Imagine a sauce so rich, so deeply flavored, that it transforms an ordinary pasta night into a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. This slow-cooked spaghetti sauce isn't just a recipe; it's a labor of love that develops complex layers of flavor over six tantalizing hours. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this foolproof recipe will elevate your pasta game and have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to a slow cooker, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Pour both cans of crushed tomatoes into the slow cooker, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Add dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the tomato mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Allow the sauce to simmer and develop its rich flavors for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the sauce after 5 hours and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Once cooking is complete, let the sauce rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully meld together.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti or use as a base for other pasta dishes. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for future use.
Tips
- Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base. San Marzano tomatoes are ideal if you can find them.
- Don't rush the sautéing process for onions and garlic - this builds foundational flavor. Ensure onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir the sauce occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.
- For a richer sauce, consider adding a Parmesan rind during the slow cooking process.
- If the sauce seems too acidic, a pinch of baking soda can help balance the flavor.
- Let the sauce rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully meld together.
- This sauce freezes beautifully - make a double batch and store portions for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
