Description

A rich and flavorful spaghetti sauce featuring the deep sweetness of caramelized garlic and onions, enhanced with herbs and a hint of brown sugar. This sauce is perfect for a comforting pasta meal, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for an authentic Italian touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti

12 oz dried spaghetti (3 ounces per person)

Sauce

8-10 cloves garlic (peeled)
28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
15 oz can of tomato sauce
5 tbsp light olive oil
2 onions (medium to large-sized, peeled and thinly sliced)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp thyme
¼ tsp dried pepper flakes (optional)
3 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper (adjust to taste)

For Serving

Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Caramelize the garlic and onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the peeled garlic cloves and sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. This process enhances the sweetness and deep flavor of the sauce.
Add herbs and spices: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, thyme, and optional dried pepper flakes. Cook for another minute to release their aromas.
Add tomatoes and sugar: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then add the brown sugar. Stir well to combine. The brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce or ladle the sauce over the pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil before serving.

Notes

This rich spaghetti sauce is uniquely sweet and flavorful due to caramelized onions and garlic.
Adjust the brown sugar to taste to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
For a spicier version, keep the dried pepper flakes or add fresh chili.
Use light olive oil for a healthier fat profile.
Adding fresh basil at the end preserves its vibrant flavor and color.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 221 kcal
Sugar: 11 g
Sodium: 8 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 1 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg