The Best Spaghetti Sauce Recipe with Tomato Sauce (No Meat)

If you’re looking for a rich, flavorful, and easy homemade spaghetti sauce, this recipe is perfect. Made with tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and a few pantry staples, it delivers a delicious Italian-style sauce without meat.

Using tomato sauce as the base ensures a smooth texture and deep flavor, making this recipe perfect for pasta, pizza, and more. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, vegetarian, and easy to make in under an hour!

Looking for more pasta inspiration? Check out this guide to tasty pasta for delicious ideas to complement your sauce.

Why Use Tomato Sauce as the Base?

Tomato sauce is the foundation of many Italian dishes, offering a rich, tangy, and smooth consistency. Unlike fresh tomatoes, canned tomato sauce is:

More convenient – No peeling, chopping, or pureeing needed.
Consistent in flavor – Fresh tomatoes can vary in taste, while canned tomato sauce provides reliability.
Easier to store – It has a long shelf life and is always available.

Many home cooks debate whether fresh or canned tomatoes are better for making sauce. While fresh tomatoes can offer a bright, vibrant taste, they require peeling, deseeding, and long cooking times to break down properly. Canned tomato sauce eliminates these extra steps and ensures a silky, restaurant-quality texture with every batch.

💡 Tip: Using high-quality tomatoes like San Marzano makes a big difference. Check out the Health Benefits of Tomato Sauce to learn why it’s a great addition to your diet.

Another key ingredient is olive oil, which enhances the sauce’s texture and flavor. Cooking with extra virgin olive oil provides health benefits and helps blend the seasonings beautifully. Find out Why Olive Oil is Essential in Cooking and how it elevates dishes.

Ingredients for the Best Meatless Spaghetti Sauce

The secret to making the best spaghetti sauce lies in using the right combination of ingredients. While every cook has their preferences, these core ingredients ensure a balanced, well-rounded flavor.

Essential Ingredients:

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Adds depth and enhances the richness of the sauce.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – Provides sweetness and texture.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
2 cans (28 oz each) tomato sauce – Forms the base of the sauce.
1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste – Helps thicken the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 tbsp brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in the sauce.
½ tsp black pepper – Adds warmth and mild heat.
1 tsp dried oregano – Brings an earthy, herbaceous note.
½ tsp dried thyme – Complements the oregano and garlic beautifully.
1 bay leaf – Infuses a subtle depth of flavor.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of spice for those who like a little kick.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:

Parmesan rind – Adds a rich, umami taste that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
Fresh basil & parsley – Stirred in at the end for a fresh and aromatic finish.
Mushrooms – Gives a meaty texture without using meat.
Balsamic vinegar or red wine – Deepens the sauce’s richness and complexity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spaghetti Sauce

A great sauce requires patience and attention to detail. Follow these steps to create a rich and flavorful meatless spaghetti sauce.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. This step allows the onions to release their natural sweetness, forming a solid flavor base.

Next, stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as overcooked garlic turns bitter.

2. Add Tomato Sauce & Seasonings

Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. The tomato paste adds a concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

Add salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.

3. Simmer to Develop Flavor

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cooking uncovered for 30-45 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If the sauce thickens too much, add ½ cup of water or vegetable broth. Adjust consistency based on your preference.

4. Final Adjustments & Serving

Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir in fresh basil and parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, sugar, or acidity as needed.

For a complete meal, pair your spaghetti sauce with a nutritious spinach salad for a fresh and healthy side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Burning the garlic – Cook for only 30 seconds to prevent bitterness.
Skipping the simmering step – Simmering helps develop a rich, deep flavor.
Over-seasoning too early – Always taste and adjust at the end.
Using low-quality tomatoes – Cheap tomato sauce can taste acidic or metallic.

How to Store & Freeze Spaghetti Sauce

Refrigeration:

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

Let the sauce cool completely.
Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

Looking for a quick way to prepare pasta on busy nights? Try making Instant Pot Spaghetti for a fast and convenient meal!

Ways to Use This Sauce

Classic spaghetti – Toss with pasta for a delicious meal.
Pizza sauce – Spread over homemade pizza dough.
Dipping sauce – Serve with garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.
Lasagna & baked ziti – Layer with pasta and cheese.

Final Thoughts

This spaghetti sauce recipe with tomato sauce (no meat) is easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you use it for pasta, pizza, or dipping, it’s a must-have for any home cook.

For more meal ideas, check out this wheat pancake recipe for a delicious and nutritious breakfast option!

Try out this sauce and let us know how it turns out! Have your own variations? Share them in the comments! 😊 🍝