Marinara Sauce Vs Spaghetti Sauce: Which Is The Best Choice?

When it comes to Italian cuisine, marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce are two of the most beloved and versatile sauces. Both are delicious, flavorful, and can be used in a variety of dishes. But what are the key differences between marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce?

Key Differences

Ingredients

• Marinara sauce: Made primarily from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
• Spaghetti sauce: Typically includes meat (such as ground beef or sausage), in addition to tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.

Texture

• Marinara sauce: Smooth and thin, with a slightly chunky texture from the tomatoes.
• Spaghetti sauce: Thicker and more robust, with a meaty texture.

Flavor

• Marinara sauce: Bright and acidic, with a strong tomato flavor.
• Spaghetti sauce: Rich and savory, with a balance of tomato, meat, and herbs.

Which Sauce to Use?

The choice between marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce depends on the dish you are making.

• Marinara sauce: Ideal for dishes that highlight the flavor of tomatoes, such as pasta with marinara, seafood dishes, and pizza.
• Spaghetti sauce: Best for dishes that require a thicker, more robust sauce, such as spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and stuffed shells.

Variations

Both marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce have countless variations. Here are a few popular options:

Marinara Sauce Variations

• Puttanesca sauce: Adds capers, olives, and anchovies.
• Arrabbiata sauce: Includes chili peppers for a spicy kick.
• Fra Diavolo sauce: Similar to Arrabbiata sauce, but with seafood.

Spaghetti Sauce Variations

• Bolognese sauce: A classic Italian sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and red wine.
• Carbonara sauce: A creamy sauce made with eggs, cheese, and bacon.
• Alfredo sauce: A rich and creamy sauce made with butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.

Health Benefits

Both marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce can be part of a healthy diet. They are both rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin A) and minerals (such as potassium and iron). Additionally, the tomatoes in both sauces contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.

How to Make Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

How to Make Spaghetti Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Wrapping Up

Both marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce are delicious and versatile sauces that can be used in a variety of dishes. The key difference between the two is that marinara sauce is made without meat, while spaghetti sauce typically includes meat. When choosing between the two, consider the flavor and texture you are looking for, as well as the dish you are making.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use marinara sauce instead of spaghetti sauce?
A: In most cases, yes. Marinara sauce can be used as a substitute for spaghetti sauce, although it may not have the same robust flavor.

Q: Can I add meat to marinara sauce?
A: Yes, you can add ground beef or sausage to marinara sauce to make a simple spaghetti sauce.

Q: How can I thicken marinara sauce?
A: There are several ways to thicken marinara sauce, including simmering it for longer, adding cornstarch or flour, or pureeing some of the tomatoes.

Q: How long does marinara sauce last in the refrigerator?
A: Marinara sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze marinara sauce?
A: Yes, marinara sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.