Spaghetti sauce with diced tomatoes is a rich, hearty dish that highlights pantry staples with fresh herbs and aromatic spices. It creates a comforting meal ready in just over 30 minutes.

This flavorful sauce blends sweet carrots, sharp garlic, and earthy oregano with the brightness of fresh basil and parsley. It’s perfect over pasta and easily customizable.

Key Ingredients in Spaghetti Sauce With Diced Tomatoes

Extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and depth to the base, enhancing all other flavors.
Yellow onion – Grated for smooth texture and subtle sweetness that builds the sauce’s foundation.
Garlic – Intensifies the aromatic profile and adds savory depth.
Carrots – Naturally sweetens and thickens the sauce without sugar.
Crushed tomatoes – The star ingredient that forms the body of the sauce.
Pasta cooking water – Adds starch and helps bind the sauce.
Dried oregano and paprika – Provide earthy and smoky layers to balance acidity.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a gentle kick.
Fresh basil and parsley – Brighten the sauce with fresh, herbaceous notes.

How to Bring This Spaghetti Sauce With Diced Tomatoes to Life

Start by sautéing grated onion, garlic, and carrot in shimmering olive oil to build flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, seasonings, and herbs, then simmer until thick and aromatic.

Finish by stirring in torn basil and cooked pasta, letting them meld together for a few minutes. This final step infuses the noodles with deep, home-cooked flavor.

Recipe Tips for Making Spaghetti Sauce With Diced Tomatoes

For an even heartier meal, incorporate ground beef, turkey, or sausage as suggested. Browning the meat first enhances the savory depth of the sauce.

Pasta cooking water is key—its starch helps thicken and emulsify the sauce for a luxurious finish. If your sauce feels too thick, simply add a splash more pasta water to adjust.

How to Store Leftover Spaghetti Sauce With Diced Tomatoes

Store any leftover sauce in a sealed glass container once completely cooled. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to three months. Always label and date before freezing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use diced tomatoes instead of crushed?
Yes, but for a smoother texture, consider blending them slightly before cooking or after simmering.

How do I make this sauce spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.

Is this sauce gluten-free?
The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free pasta if needed.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even better when reheated.

Spaghetti Sauce With Diced Tomatoes

Print Pin Rate

Total Time: 35

Ingredients

Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion grated
1 tbsp dried oregano
28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
1 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
1/2 cup water preferably reserved pasta water
2 carrots finely grated
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 garlic cloves finely minced
About 1/2 cup packed fresh parsley chopped
About 1/2 cup packed fresh basil torn
To serve:
3/4 lb to 1 lb of cooked pasta of your choice

Instructions

Warm the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Stir in the grated onion, minced garlic, and finely shredded carrots, cooking for around 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Incorporate the crushed tomatoes and water, followed by a generous seasoning of kosher salt and black pepper. Blend in the dried oregano, sweet paprika, and red pepper flakes if desired. Mix in the fresh basil and parsley.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the sauce simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, checking occasionally. If the sauce becomes overly thick, add a splash more water, preferably from the pasta pot. Once the sauce is ready, you may fold in additional fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor.
To serve, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, allowing it to simmer gently together over low heat for approximately 5 minutes to marry the flavors.