Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe: A Homemade Italian Classic

In this step-by-step Jim’s spaghetti sauce recipe guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to make the perfect sauce, from the required ingredients and equipment to detailed instructions and nutrition facts. Plus, we’ll offer some delicious variations on the recipe and tips and tricks for making the perfect sauce.

Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup water

Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Grater

Detailed instructions

1. Pour two tablespoons of premium olive oil into a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat and let it sizzle. Add ground beef and cook for 10-12 minutes until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and water. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring intermittently. Add a small amount of water if the sauce is too dense. Taste and adjust seasoning, and blend with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the desired thickness and consistency are achieved. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 110
• Total fat: 6g
• Saturated fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 390mg
• Total carbohydrate: 7g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 8g

Delicious Variations on Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe You Have to Try

For a fiery twist, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. To create a heartier dish, throw in a pound of ground beef or turkey. And for a vegetarian option, swap the meat out for two cups of cooked lentils or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas.

Altering the texture and consistency of the sauce can create a whole new eating experience. Add a cup of heavy cream for a rich and creamy tomato sauce, or cut back on the tomato sauce by half for a thicker, chunkier sauce that pairs perfectly with rigatoni or penne pasta.

Pair Jim’s classic recipe with spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. For a spicy variation, serve with garlic bread and a Caesar salad. And for the vegetarian option, try zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta, topped with chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts.

To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta and double-check all other ingredients, like canned tomatoes and spices, to ensure they’re gluten-free. And for a vegan twist, simply omit the cream and substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese.

Your Ultimate Guide to Making Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe: Tips and Tricks

Common mistakes to avoid when making Jim’s spaghetti sauce recipe:

• Firstly, it’s paramount to ensure that the onions and garlic are sautéed until they’re soft and translucent. This step is pivotal in setting the foundation for the sauce’s base flavors.
• Secondly, steer clear of canned tomatoes as they can contain citric acid, which could alter the sauce’s taste. Opt for fresh tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes instead.
• Lastly, resist the temptation to add extra salt initially as the salt will concentrate as the sauce thickens, and you don’t want an overly salty sauce.

Expert tips for getting the best flavor and consistency out of the sauce:

• First and foremost, use a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage to enhance the sauce’s depth and richness.
• Secondly, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken the sauce and intensify the tomato’s flavor.
• Lastly, let the sauce simmer for a minimum of an hour to allow the flavors to meld and develop into a scrumptious, savory sauce.

When it comes to storing leftover sauce, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to four days and in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat the sauce, simply pop it into a pot on low heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through.

Lastly, if you’re seeking some inspiration, consider incorporating Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe into lasagna or as a pizza topping. The sauce’s rich flavors are ideal for these dishes and are sure to impress.

Conclusion

With these expert tips and delicious variations on Jim’s Spaghetti Sauce Recipe, you’ll soon be known as El Genio del Shawarma of the pasta world. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these tips and tricks will help you perfect the texture, consistency, and flavor of your sauce.