Capture the taste of summer any time with this homemade Canning Spaghetti Sauce, rich with ripe tomatoes and fresh parsley. Simmered gently with garlic and herbs, the sauce thickens beautifully before being preserved safely in jars. Stock your pantry with this vibrant side dish, turning simple pasta nights into memorable family dinners all year long.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Canning Spaghetti Sauce
For the sauce
- Olive Oil – A must for sautéing the onions and garlic to build that flavorful base.
- Yellow Onion – Finely chopped for sweetness and depth—this is the foundation of the sauce.
- Garlic – Minced and added just after the onions for that aromatic punch.
- Ripe Tomatoes – Peeled and diced; they’re the star of the sauce, so make sure they’re fresh and flavorful.
- Tomato Paste – Adds richness and thickness to the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce – Balances the texture and enhances the tomato flavor.
- Dried Basil – A classic herb that brings a touch of earthy sweetness.
- Dried Oregano – Essential for that Italian-inspired flavor profile.
- Salt – Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper – A little goes a long way to add a subtle kick.
- Sugar – A tiny bit to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh Parsley – Finely chopped and stirred in at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
Cook Time for Spaghetti Sauce Canning Process
I always tell my friends that good things take time, and this homemade garden tomato preservation is no exception.
The hands-on work is minimal, but that slow simmering is where the magic happens.
Here’s what you can expect time-wise when you make this Canning Spaghetti Sauce:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 60 minutes |
If you’re new to preserving, you might want to check out my canning recipes for beginners guide first.
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Canning
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Be careful not to let it brown or burn—that bitter taste will carry through your whole batch.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes
Add 2 pounds of peeled and diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce to the pot.
Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly—this is where your savory basil oregano pasta topping begins to take shape.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Mix in dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes until thickened.
This slow-simmered savory tomato sauce develops incredible depth as it reduces.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs
Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 6: Prepare for Canning
While the sauce simmers, prepare your canning jars, lids, and boiling water bath.
Ensure all equipment is sterilized according to safe canning practices.
Step 7: Jar and Process
Carefully ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.
Wipe the jar rims clean, place lids on, and tighten bands fingertip-tight.
Process jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make this Canning Spaghetti Sauce even more special.
Here are my favorite ways to customize this recipe to match whatever I’m craving that day.
- Flavor Swap: For a roasted garlic and herb pasta sauce, roast your garlic cloves before adding them to the pot. The caramelized sweetness transforms the entire flavor profile.
- Diet Tweaks: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can omit the sugar entirely or replace it with a pinch of baking soda to neutralize acidity without adding sweetness.
- Texture Fix: For an ultra-smooth sauce, use an immersion blender before canning. I love this method when I’m making sauce for my healthy pasta salad recipes.
- Storage Tip: Always label your jars with the date and contents. Properly canned sauce will keep for 12-18 months, but it never lasts that long in my pantry! For more preservation ideas, try my spiced peaches canning recipe too.
Canning Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can tomato paste (6 ounces)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Equipment
- Large pot
- measuring cups
- Strainer
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the fresh parsley during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- While the sauce simmers, prepare your canning jars, lids, and boiling water bath according to safe canning practices.
- Carefully ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean, place the lids on, and tighten the bands fingertip-tight.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes. Remove and let cool completely before checking the seals and storing.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
When you make this homemade Canning Spaghetti Sauce from scratch, you’re not just preserving summer’s bounty – you’re creating something truly nourishing for your family.
I always feel good serving this sauce because I know exactly what’s in it. Unlike store-bought versions, there are no hidden preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Tomatoes are the heart of this sauce, and they’re packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that becomes even more bioavailable when cooked. The olive oil helps your body absorb these nutrients too.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving:
| Nutrient | Per 1/2 Cup Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 1g |
This slow-simmered savory tomato sauce provides vitamin C from the tomatoes and antioxidants from the herbs.
For those watching their sodium intake, you can reduce the salt without compromising flavor. The herbs and garlic bring so much natural taste to this homemade garden tomato preservation.
If you’re looking for other healthy recipe ideas, try my healthy spaghetti squash recipes as a perfect base for this sauce.
You might also enjoy my farmers market roasted tomato salad for another way to enjoy fresh tomatoes.
For official guidance on preserving tomato products safely, I always refer to the Acidifying Tomatoes for Safe Canning guidelines.
A Lighter Version of Spaghetti Sauce Canning
Sometimes I want all the flavor of our family’s favorite Canning Spaghetti Sauce with a lighter touch.
Over the years, I’ve discovered some simple swaps that make this sauce even more health-conscious without sacrificing that rich, comforting taste we all love.
First, you can reduce the olive oil by half and still achieve that beautiful sautéed flavor. I’ve found that using a good non-stick pot helps tremendously with this.
For those watching sugar intake, simply omit the sugar entirely. The natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes often makes additional sweeteners unnecessary.
Alternatively, you can use a natural sugar alternative like stevia if your tomatoes are particularly acidic. Just remember that sugar helps with preservation too, so adjust other elements accordingly.
I love adding extra vegetables to boost nutrition. Finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers blend right into the sauce during cooking.
They add natural sweetness and nutrients while keeping the classic flavor profile intact. This spaghetti sauce canning process works beautifully with these additions.
For more inspiration on lighter meals, check out my caprese pasta salad recipe.
You might also enjoy my almond pesto dip as another healthy sauce option for your pantry.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I’ve learned through cooking for friends and family with different dietary needs that small adjustments can make big differences.
Many of my loved ones are sugar conscious or managing blood sugar, so I’ve developed some gentle tweaks for this Canning Spaghetti Sauce.
For a truly sugar-free version, simply omit the sugar entirely. Ripe, in-season tomatoes often have enough natural sweetness on their own.
If your tomatoes are particularly acidic, a pinch of baking soda can neutralize acidity without adding sweetness, making it more diabetic-friendly.
You could also experiment with natural sugar alternatives like stevia or xylitol, though I recommend tasting as you go since some can have aftertastes.
Portion control is another simple approach – serving smaller amounts of sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash creates a lower glycemic index meal.
For those watching sodium, reduce the salt and let the herbs and garlic carry the flavor. I often add extra oregano and basil when making this adjustment.
Remember, the beauty of homemade Canning Spaghetti Sauce is that you control exactly what goes into each jar, making it easier to accommodate various dietary preferences.
How to Serve Canning Spaghetti Sauce
I’ll never forget the first time I served this homemade sauce to my grandmother.
She took one bite, closed her eyes, and said “Child, this tastes like summer in a jar.” That memory stays with me every time I open a new jar of this Canning Spaghetti Sauce.
This versatile sauce transforms simple weeknight meals into something special. Of course, it’s perfect over your favorite pasta – I love it with thick spaghetti or rigatoni that really holds the sauce.
But don’t stop there! This roasted garlic and herb pasta sauce makes a wonderful base for soups, stews, and casseroles too.
For a quick dinner, I often brown some ground turkey or beef and add a jar of this sauce for an instant meal. It’s also fantastic as a pizza sauce or dipping sauce for breadsticks.
Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that feels both nourishing and comforting.
If you’re looking for creative serving ideas, try my Greek tomato eggs recipe – sometimes I use this sauce as the base.
For a different pasta experience, this sauce pairs beautifully with my spicy garlic penne preparation.
However you choose to serve it, this pressure-canned rich tomato sauce brings the taste of summer to your table any time of year.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made my share of mistakes in the kitchen over the years, especially when I first started my Canning Spaghetti Sauce journey.
Learning from these experiences has helped me perfect this homemade spaghetti sauce canning process, and I’m happy to share what I’ve discovered so you can avoid common pitfalls.
One big mistake I see is not cooking the sauce down enough before canning. If your sauce is too thin, it can affect the processing and final texture.
Always simmer until it reaches a thick, spoon-coating consistency – this ensures proper preservation and better flavor concentration.
Another error is forgetting to adjust for altitude. If you live above 1,000 feet, you must increase processing times.
I learned this the hard way when visiting my sister in Colorado! Following proper Ball Mason Jars Canning Instructions for your elevation is crucial for safety.
Some folks skip the acidification step, but this is non-negotiable for tomato products. Even if your tomatoes taste sweet, they might not be acidic enough for safe preservation.
Always add the recommended lemon juice or citric acid to ensure your pressure-canned rich tomato sauce remains safe on the shelf.
For more beginner tips, check out my canning recipes for beginners guide.
You might also enjoy my spiced peaches canning recipe for another preservation project.
How to Store Canning Spaghetti Sauce
I’ll never forget opening my grandmother’s pantry as a child – rows of beautiful jars gleaming like ruby jewels, each one filled with summer’s bounty.
That memory inspires how I store my homemade Canning Spaghetti Sauce today, creating both nourishment and nostalgia in every jar.
Properly processed jars will keep for 12-18 months in a cool, dark place. I always label each jar with the date and contents using a permanent marker.
Once opened, refrigerate and use within 5-7 days. This savory basil oregano pasta topping also freezes beautifully for up to 6 months.
For freezing, I recommend leaving about an inch of headspace in freezer-safe containers as the sauce will expand. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
If you’re looking for more storage ideas, my peach canning recipes include helpful preservation tips.
You might also enjoy my can peaches recipe for another way to preserve seasonal fruits.
Try This Canning Spaghetti Sauce Yourself
There’s something magical about opening a jar of homemade sauce in January that tastes like August sunshine.
I hope you’ll experience that same joy with this Canning Spaghetti Sauce recipe that’s become a cornerstone of my family’s kitchen traditions.
Whether you’re preserving your garden harvest or simply want to create something nourishing for your family, this tomato canning recipes approach delivers both flavor and comfort.
The process might seem daunting at first, but the reward of shelf-stable homemade sauce is worth every moment spent simmering and canning.
I’d love to hear about your canning adventures! Share your experiences with this preserving garden tomato sauce method and how you’ve made it your own.
For more recipe inspiration, try my healthy pasta salad as a perfect side dish.
You might also enjoy my spicy garlic penne pasta with this sauce.
For a different sauce option, check out my tzatziki sauce recipe.
Or try my healthy BBQ sauce for grilling season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does spaghetti sauce need to be pressure canned or water bath?
It depends on your recipe’s acidity level. Most tomato-based spaghetti sauces can be safely processed using a water bath canner if they contain added acid like lemon juice or citric acid. However, low-acid sauces or those with meat require pressure canning. Always follow tested recipes from reliable sources like the USDA Spaghetti Sauce Canning Guidelines for safety.
How long do you process spaghetti sauce in a canner?
Processing times vary based on your canning method and jar size. For water bath canning, pints typically process for 35 minutes and quarts for 40 minutes. Pressure canning times are shorter but depend on your pressure level and altitude. Always adjust for elevation and follow specific instructions for your recipe and equipment.
Is it safe to can homemade spaghetti sauce?
Absolutely, when you follow proper safety guidelines! The key is using tested recipes that include adequate acidification and following correct processing times and methods. I’ve been safely canning homemade spaghetti sauce for years by adhering to established food preservation principles and reputable sources.
Do you need lemon juice when canning spaghetti sauce?
Yes, this is crucial for safety. Even vine-ripened tomatoes can vary in acidity, and the addition of other ingredients like vegetables further reduces acidity. Lemon juice, citric acid, or vinegar ensures the proper pH level for safe water bath canning, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.
More preserving projects for your kitchen
If you loved making this spaghetti sauce, you might enjoy these other preservation recipes that bring seasonal flavors to your pantry year-round.
Spiced Peach Preserves – Sweet peaches infused with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect over yogurt or toast.
Simple Canned Peaches – Classic preserved peaches that taste like summer sunshine in every bite.
Freezer Basil Pesto – Bright herbal flavor captured at its peak, ready for pasta or sandwiches.
Homemade Tzatziki – Refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce that’s perfect for grilled meats and veggies.
Smoky BBQ Sauce – Tangy, sweet homemade sauce that beats anything from a store bottle.
