This homemade tomato basil spaghetti sauce is a classic Italian recipe that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a few simple ingredients, this sauce is perfect for any pasta dish. It is rich, savory, and will leave your taste buds wanting more. Serve it over your favorite cooked pasta for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score the bottom of each tomato with a small 'X' using a knife. Blanch the tomatoes in the boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Peel off the skin and roughly chop the tomatoes.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the saucepan and heat it over low heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if desired. You can add more salt, pepper, or sugar according to your taste preferences.
- Once the sauce is heated through and well blended, it is ready to be served. Spoon the sauce over cooked pasta of your choice and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
