Secret spaghetti sauce –Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where we honor the heart of home cooking. Today, we’re diving into a cherished family recipe that promises to fill your kitchen with warmth and wonderful aromas. Prepare yourself for Grandma Pat’s Secret Spaghetti Sauce, a dish that has been passed down through generations and holds a special place in our family gatherings.
Grandma Pat’s Secret Spaghetti Sauce
This spaghetti sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. Each ingredient is carefully selected to enhance the flavors and create a delicious meal that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the meat is browned, drain excess fat if necessary. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor!
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, let it simmer for up to 2 hours.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Grandma Pat’s Secret Spaghetti Sauce is a dish that will surely impress your family and friends. Pair it with your favorite side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the smiles that this comforting dish brings to the table!