When it comes to spaghetti sauce, everyone has their own preference. Some people like it plain and simple, while others prefer to add various ingredients to enhance the flavor.

So, do you add anything to spaghetti sauce? Let’s explore some options.

Herbs and Spices

Adding herbs and spices is a great way to give your spaghetti sauce a boost of flavor. Some popular options include basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

These herbs can be added either fresh or dried depending on your preference. Additionally, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes can also be used to add a bit of kick.

Meat

If you’re looking for a heartier sauce, adding meat is a great option. Ground beef, sausage, and meatballs are all popular choices.

Simply brown the meat in a pan before adding it to the sauce. This will not only add flavor but also protein.

Vegetables

Vegetables are another great way to bulk up your spaghetti sauce while adding some nutrition. Popular vegetables to add include onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Simply sauté them in olive oil before adding them into the sauce.

Cheese

Who doesn’t love cheese? Adding grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella can take your spaghetti sauce from good to great. The cheese will melt into the sauce creating a rich and creamy texture.

  • TIP: To prevent the cheese from clumping together or sinking to the bottom of the pot, add it gradually while stirring constantly.

Canned Tomatoes vs Fresh Tomatoes

One debate when it comes to making spaghetti sauce is whether to use canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes. While both options have their pros and cons, ultimately it comes down to personal preference.

Canned Tomatoes

  • Pros: Convenient, available year-round, consistent flavor.
  • Cons: May contain preservatives or added salt.

Fresh Tomatoes

  • Pros: Fresh and flavorful, can control the amount of salt and seasonings used.
  • Cons: Seasonal availability, may require peeling and seeding the tomatoes before use.

The Bottom Line

Whether you choose to add herbs and spices, meat, vegetables, cheese or a combination of these ingredients to your spaghetti sauce is entirely up to you. What matters most is that it tastes good to you.

Play around with different ingredients until you find the perfect combination that works for your taste buds. After all, that’s what cooking is all about – experimenting and having fun in the kitchen!