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Jo Mamas World Famous Spaghetti Recipe

Jo Mama's World Famous Spaghetti Recipe

This delightful recipe has become a favorite among families and friends, as it combines easy-to-find ingredients with a remarkable depth of flavor.
The secret lies in the careful selection and balance of spices like basil, parsley, and crushed red pepper, which meld together during a slow, steady simmer.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Equipment
  • 1 large, heavy stockpot
Ingredients
  
  • 2 lbs Italian sausage mild or hot, casings removed
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion chopped (optional)
  • 3-4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can 28 oz whole tomatoes, crushed by hand
  • 2 6 oz cans tomato paste
  • 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup red wine optional
  • 1.5 lbs spaghetti noodles cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
 
  • Brown the meats: In a large, heavy stockpot, brown the Italian sausage and lean ground beef, breaking them up as you stir.
    Cook until both meats are no longer pink and are evenly crumbled.
  • Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot and continue cooking, stirring occasionally until the onions are softened.
    Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Prepare the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water to the pot.
    Stir everything together until it is well combined.
    Season the sauce: Add the chopped basil, parsley, brown sugar, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and ground black pepper to the pot.
    Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
  • Simmer: Stir in the red wine, if using, and then barely bring the sauce to a boil.
    Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 1.5 - 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
    Cook the spaghetti noodles: While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions.
    Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  • Serve: Spoon the sauce over the cooked spaghetti noodles and garnish with additional parsley flakes or grated cheese as desired.
    Enjoy your delicious Jo Mama's World Famous Spaghetti with friends and family.
    Don't forget to serve it with a side of your favorite garlic bread or a crisp, refreshing salad.