This easy homemade spaghetti sauce is perfect for canning! With ripe tomatoes, herbs, and a touch of garlic, it’s packed with fresh flavor that makes every pasta dish shine.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip this up—you just simmer everything until it’s delightful and ready to jar. Plus, you can impress friends with your very own sauce! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Ripe Roma or plum tomatoes are best for this sauce due to their low moisture content and rich flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, use canned whole tomatoes as a substitute. Just crush them and proceed with the recipe.
Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice is important for safely canning, as it helps maintain acidity. If you’re looking for a more natural option, use fresh lemon juice instead. Just make sure to measure the correct amount for safety.
Onions: I recommend yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. You can substitute with sweet onions or even red onions if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that red onions may change the color of your sauce slightly.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and richness, but any vegetable oil will work if you’re looking for a more neutral taste. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Herbs: Dried herbs work well here, but if you have fresh herbs, feel free to substitute about three times the amount. Fresh basil and oregano will enhance the flavor even more!
How Do I Ensure My Spaghetti Sauce Is Safe for Canning?
Canning may seem intimidating, but it’s all about following safe methods! The most important step is ensuring acidity in your sauce, which is why the lemon juice is crucial.
- Always use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh for accuracy.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath to destroy bacteria.
- Use proper headspace in jars (½ inch) to allow for expansion during processing.
- Check seals after cooling by pressing down in the center of the lid. It shouldn’t move up or down.
With these tips, you can confidently can your spaghetti sauce and enjoy it later! Happy cooking! 🍅
Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce for Canning
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 20 pounds ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum are ideal)
- 1/2 cup bottled lemon juice
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 3 tablespoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and another 1.5 to 2 hours for simmering the sauce. You’ll also spend time sterilizing your jars and processing them, which adds another 40-45 minutes. Make sure to set aside a good chunk of your day to enjoy this wholesome canning project!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the tomatoes for about 1 minute. This will help loosen their skins. After that, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins, core, and crush the tomatoes. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, sautéing them until translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add the crushed tomatoes to the pot along with the salt, pepper, sugar (if using), basil, oregano, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir everything well to combine. This is where the wonderful aroma will start filling your kitchen!
4. Simmer and Thicken:
Bring the sauce to a boil and then reduce the heat. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. You want to cook it down until it thickens to your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust your seasonings as needed!
5. Prepare Canning Jars:
While the sauce is simmering, take the time to prepare your canning jars and lids. Sterilize them by placing them in boiling water or running them through a dishwasher on a hot cycle. Keep them hot until you’re ready to fill them! This step is essential for safe canning.
6. Fill the Jars:
Once your sauce is ready, add bottled lemon juice to the bottom of each hot jar (1/2 tablespoon for pint jars, 1 tablespoon for quart jars). Ladle the hot sauce into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. To remove any air bubbles, run a non-metallic spatula around the inside edge of the jar. Finally, wipe the rims clean and seal them with lids and bands.
7. Process the Jars:
Process your filled jars in a boiling water bath canner for 40 minutes for pint jars and 45 minutes for quart jars. Remember to adjust for your altitude if necessary. Once done, carefully remove the jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours on a clean kitchen towel or cutting board.
8. Check and Store:
After cooling, check that the seals are tight by pressing down in the center of each lid; it should not pop back. Label your jars with the date and contents, then store them in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your sauce within a week of opening!
9. Time to Enjoy:
Your homemade spaghetti sauce is now ready to shine on pasta! Serve it with your favorite noodles and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce for Canning
Can I Use Store-Bought Tomato Sauce Instead of Fresh Tomatoes?
Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes as a shortcut, but keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired thickness. Aim for a total cooking time of about 30-60 minutes with store-bought sauce, and don’t forget to add the lemon juice for proper acidity!
What Is the Best Way to Store Canned Spaghetti Sauce?
Once the jars are sealed and cooled, store them in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. If you’ve opened a jar, refrigerate it and use it within a week for the best flavor and freshness!
Can I Adjust the Seasoning in the Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar, or if you like it spicier, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Just remember to taste as you go!
How Long Will My Canned Spaghetti Sauce Last?
Properly canned spaghetti sauce can last up to a year when stored in cool, dark conditions. For the best quality, consume within a year, but if stored correctly, it can still be safe to eat beyond that—with a check for any signs of spoilage before use.
