Easy Weeknight Pasta Sauce

Looking for a quick and delicious pasta sauce that you can whip up in just 20 minutes? This easy weeknight pasta sauce is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending all day in the kitchen.

The secret to this flavorful dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, you can create a rich, satisfying pasta sauce that will impress even those who think they know their way around a good meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, spaghetti)

Instructions

Begin by browning the ground beef or Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Once browned, add the minced garlic and chopped onions, cooking until they become translucent.

Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld nicely while you prepare your pasta.

Cooking Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Servings: 4-6 people

While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly and toss with the warm pasta sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Sauce

Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, using fresh ones gives a more vibrant taste to the sauce. Add them towards the end so they retain their freshness.
Cooking Time: Ensure you give your pasta sauce enough time to simmer; otherwise, it may not be as flavorful.
Season Sparingly: Taste before adding salt and pepper. Too much can overpower the natural sweetness of tomatoes.

This versatile pasta sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of pasta shapes. Experiment with different types like bow-tie or rigatoni to see what you like best! You could also add some extra veggies such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for an added nutritional boost and texture.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of cream at the end to enrich your sauce. Alternatively, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top of each serving for a richer flavor experience.

Storage

This homemade pasta sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing portions individually wrapped in plastic bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat your sauce, simply place it back on low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, if you're short on time but still want that home-cooked taste, microwave smaller amounts of the frozen sauce for about 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave's power level and the quantity you're reheating.

Whether you’re enjoying this pasta sauce as a simple meal by itself or serving it over fresh salads with a side of garlic bread, everyone will find it comforting and delicious. It’s not just dinner; it’s a true feast for the senses!

Conclusion

This easy weeknight pasta sauce is more than just food—it's about bringing joy to your table each night. With its simplicity and versatility, you can easily customize it based on what ingredients you have at home or preferences of those you're serving.

Taste the difference between store-bought sauces and homemade versions! You might be surprised by how much better homemade pasta sauce tastes. Share this recipe with friends and family; they'll love it as much as you do!