Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Ok people, this is not your average spaghetti sauce!

Wolfgang Puck’s recipe builds layers of richness with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a slow-simmered base that takes its time.

The key to getting that deep, well-rounded taste? Toasting the tomato paste before adding the other ingredients—it brings out a rich, caramelized edge.

I always go for San Marzano tomatoes because they cook down into a smooth, balanced sauce without too much acidity.

A splash of good red wine makes all the difference, adding depth that complements the garlic and herbs.

Letting it simmer for at least an hour makes everything blend together beautifully, but if you have more time, two hours is even better.

How to Make Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 can Tomatoes (32 oz.)
• 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef
• ½ lb. Ground Pork
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 3 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tsp Oregano
• 1 tsp Basil
• 1 cup Water
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and translucent.

Step 2:

Mix ground beef and ground pork in a mixing bowl.

Add the mixture to the saucepan. Cook until browned evenly.

Step 3:

Stir in tomato paste to the saucepan.

Add the canned tomatoes and water. Mix well to combined thoroughly.

Step 4:

Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce.

Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

When it’s thick and flavorful, remove from heat.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh herbs can make a huge difference in flavor.

Always opt for the best you can find when you shop for your ingredients.

Perfect the Simmering

Allowing the sauce to simmer gently for the full duration helps the flavors develop, enriching the sauce perfectly.

Be patient and let it cook slowly!

Balance the Seasonings

Taste the sauce periodically and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs as you prefer.

Making slight tweaks ensures you get the flavor just right according to your tastes.

Stir Often

Occasional stirring makes sure the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

This helps the sauce to cook evenly and avoids burning.

Use Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic delivers more intense flavor than pre-minced or dried garlic.

It’s worth the extra step to mince it fresh yourself.

What to Serve with Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic and pairs wonderfully with Wolfgang Puck’s spaghetti sauce.

The rich garlic flavor complements the tangy tomato sauce beautifully.

You can either make your own or buy a store-bought version for convenience.

Simple Green Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing works perfectly alongside this hearty dish.

The fresh greens offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce and meatballs.

Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a tasty and somewhat unexpected companion.

I recommend drizzling them with a bit of olive oil and a touch of lemon juice for brightness.

They add a touch of elegance to your meal that you’re sure to enjoy.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers bring a unique twist to the table with their fresh flavors.

Thread mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves on skewers.

Drizzle them with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor, since these tiny skewers pack a flavorful punch.

Polenta Fries

Polenta fries are lesser-known but SO good when paired with spaghetti sauce.

They have a crispy exterior that gives way to a creamy interior.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Consider making stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs for an interesting pairing.

These savory bites are amazing as appetizers or as a side.

Their earthy flavors add depth to your meal and leave your diners intrigued.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding Spice

If you like a little heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

This will give it a nice kick that can warm things up a bit, especially on cooler days.

Using Fresh Ingredients

For a fresher sauce, try using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones.

Fresh tomatoes can add a chunkier texture and a vibrant flavor to the sauce.

Vegetable Enhancements

Adding vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers can give the sauce extra depth.

These can complement the flavors of the meatballs nicely and add some nutritional value.

Meat Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, like turkey or lamb.

Each type of meat can give the sauce a unique flavor, so you can find the combination that suits your taste.

Aromatic Herbs

Try mixing it up with herbs like fresh basil or rosemary, to bring a new dimension to the sauce!

These herbs can introduce aromatic notes, making the sauce even more enticing.

How to Store Leftover Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti Sauce

Refrigeration Is Key!

After you’ve finished cooking, let the spaghetti sauce cool before placing it in the fridge.

Use an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh for up to three days.

Use Freezing for Longer Storage

If you won’t eat the sauce soon, freezing is a great option.

Pour the leftover sauce into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

This way, it stays good for up to three months.

Label and Date Containers

It’s always smart to label your containers with the date you froze them.

It helps you remember what’s in them and how long they’ve been there.

This simple step prevents future guesswork in your kitchen adventures!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Meat-to-Fat Ratio

You want juicy and flavorful meatballs, right?

Don’t forget to balance lean meats like ground beef with some ground pork.

This mix makes all the difference!

Overcrowding the Pot

It’s tempting to throw everything in at once, but avoid overcrowding.

Give those meatballs some breathing room to cook evenly.

Trust me, it’s worth it!

Ruining the Sauce Consistency

Simmering too high or too low can ruin the sauce’s texture.

Keep it at a gentle simmer, and stir occasionally.

This way, your sauce becomes beautifully thick without burning.