Olive Garden Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we understand that creating a comforting, flavorful Italian-inspired dish like Olive Garden Spaghetti Sauce can evoke memories of cozy family dinners and lively gatherings. This sauce embodies the rustic charm and vibrant flavors that define traditional Italian cuisine, reimagined with simple ingredients and a few secret touches that elevate the taste profile. Whether you’re craving a hearty pasta dish after a long day or preparing a special weekend meal, this recipe offers a quick yet indulgent solution. Crafted with love and attention to detail, it combines the richness of seasoned ground beef, the acidity of tomatoes, and a hint of sweetness from jelly, all balanced with aromatic herbs and spices. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen with this meticulously developed recipe, exclusively shared here on Love With Recipes, your trusted culinary guide.

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Total Time: approximately 25-30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Colander or strainer
• Knife and cutting board
• Stirring spoon
• Serving ladle
• Pot or large saucepan for boiling pasta
• Grater for cheese (optional)
• Kitchen towel or paper towels

Tags

Italian, Pasta Sauce, Quick & Easy, Family-Friendly, Homemade, Comfort Food

Serving Size

Serves 4 to 6 people generously, depending on portion sizes and accompaniments.

Difficulty Level

Easy — suitable for beginner to intermediate cooks. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to handle.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains gluten (from pasta), and dairy (Parmesan cheese for topping). It is free from nuts and shellfish. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, suitable substitutions are recommended.

Dietary Preference

Suitable for omnivores. Can be modified for vegetarian diets by omitting the ground beef and adding plant-based protein options.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

Italian-inspired, American comfort food

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring out each component carefully. Rinse the green bell pepper, mushrooms, and tomatoes as needed. Dice the green pepper into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution. Slice the mushrooms thinly to maximize their surface area, allowing them to release their umami flavor during sautéing. Open the cans of stewed tomatoes and set aside. Measure the jelly and onion soup mix accurately for consistent results. If you’re using fresh herbs, wash and chop them finely.

2. Brown the ground beef

Place a large skillet or sauté pan on the stove over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat into small crumbles. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned evenly and cooked through. The browning process develops the Maillard reaction, which imparts a rich, savory flavor characteristic of this sauce. As the meat reaches the perfect color, ensure that it is cooked thoroughly, with no pink remaining.

3. Drain and rinse the meat

Once browned, remove the skillet from heat. Drain excess fat by tilting the skillet and pouring the fat into a separate container or using a fine-mesh strainer. To remove any residual grease and create a leaner sauce, rinse the cooked meat briefly under hot water in a colander. This step helps eliminate excess fats that could make the sauce greasy or overly heavy, leading to a lighter, more balanced flavor profile. After rinsing, drain thoroughly and set the meat aside.

4. Sauté vegetables and mushrooms

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and diced green peppers. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Mushrooms release their juices and develop a caramelized exterior, boosting the umami taste, while the peppers soften and become sweet. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you prefer softer vegetables, extend sautéing time accordingly.

5. Combine ingredients in the sauce pot

Transfer the browned meat back to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the two cans of stewed tomatoes directly into the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break down the tomatoes further if they are whole or large chunks. Stir in the 1/2 cup of jelly and 1/4 cup of onion soup mix. These ingredients add a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and enhancing the savory profile of the beef and vegetables. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

6. Simmer the sauce

Pour the entire mixture into a large pot or saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover the pot loosely with a lid or leave it slightly ajar to allow some steam to escape. Let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes. During this time, flavors will meld, and the sauce will thicken slightly. Stir periodically to prevent sticking and ensure uniform cooking. The simmering process is crucial for developing a rich, cohesive flavor profile and allowing the ingredients to fully integrate.

7. Final seasoning and serving

After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For added freshness, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot over your favorite pasta—spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or any shape you prefer. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an indulgent finishing touch. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Preparation Tips

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended if available.
• For a more robust flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing for a slight heat kick.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the mixture slightly with an immersion blender after simmering.
• Adjust the amount of jelly depending on your sweetness preference—start with less and add more if desired.
• For a more textured sauce, leave the tomatoes chunky and skip blending.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a richer, deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine during the simmering process.
• To enhance the aroma, include a couple of garlic cloves minced finely along with the vegetables.
• Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for a more authentic taste. Add these towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• For freezing, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months.

Add-ons and Variations

• Incorporate chopped black olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist.
• Add cooked Italian sausage or meatballs to make it heartier.
• Mix in sautéed spinach or kale for added greens and nutrients.
• Use gluten-free pasta and substitute dairy-free cheese for allergy-friendly versions.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens salad
• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
• Antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and olives

Improvements and Customizations

To personalize the sauce, consider adding a dash of balsamic vinegar for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also yield unique variations, such as adding rosemary or sage for a more aromatic profile. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Adjusting the sweetness level by varying the jelly quantity allows tailoring the sauce to your palate. Incorporate sautéed onions or garlic at the start of cooking for more depth and complexity.

Save and Store

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage. Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

FAQ

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, letting the sauce sit in the refrigerator overnight allows flavors to meld even further, resulting in a richer taste. Reheat gently before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes. Simply omit the ground beef and increase the vegetables or add plant-based proteins like lentils or sautéed tofu.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Yes. Start with 1/4 cup of jelly and add more gradually if a sweeter profile is desired. Taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

What are the best pasta options to serve with this sauce?

Traditional spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well. Choose your favorite type based on preference and texture.

How can I make this sauce gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that any additional ingredients, such as the onion soup mix, are certified gluten-free. Substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or omit if not essential.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Spaghetti Sauce, as featured on Love With Recipes, exemplifies the art of turning simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that captures authentic Italian flavors. Its quick preparation, balanced sweetness, and savory depth make it a versatile addition to your weekly meal rotation. Whether served over traditional pasta or used as a base for layered baked dishes, this sauce promises to satisfy and impress. Embrace the joy of homemade cooking, knowing that each batch can be customized to your taste preferences, dietary needs, and ingredient availability. With a few strategic tweaks and tips, you’ll master this recipe and perhaps even develop your own signature version. Remember, cooking is an art—use this recipe as a foundation to experiment, evolve, and create memorable meals that bring family and friends together around the table.

References

• Authentic Italian Cooking: A Comprehensive Guide by Maria Giuseppe
• Food and Cooking Science by Harold McGee