Prego Spaghetti Sauce Recipe For Canning

I remember the first time I attempted to make spaghetti sauce from scratch. I had a craving for a hearty, flavorful sauce to top my pasta, but I was determined to make it myself rather than reach for a jar of store-bought sauce. As I rummaged through my pantry, I found a can of diced tomatoes, some garlic, onions, and a few herbs. With a little creativity and a lot of trial and error, I managed to whip up a delicious sauce that surpassed my expectations.

Since then, I have become a fan of homemade spaghetti sauce. Not only does it allow me to control the ingredients and flavors, but it also saves me money in the long run. One of my favorite recipes to make is Prego spaghetti sauce for canning. This recipe is easy to follow, can be customized to suit your taste preferences, and yields a large batch of sauce that can be canned and stored for future use.

**Understanding the Topic**

Making Prego spaghetti sauce for canning involves simmering a mixture of tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens to the desired consistency. The sauce is then ladled into sterilized jars, sealed, and processed in a water bath canner to ensure safe storage. Canning your own spaghetti sauce not only allows you to enjoy the flavors of homemade sauce year-round but also makes for a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

**Common Pitfalls or Mistakes**

One common mistake when making Prego spaghetti sauce for canning is not properly sterilizing the jars before filling them with the hot sauce. It is crucial to sterilize the jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for at least 10 minutes to prevent bacterial contamination and ensure a safe shelf-stable product.

Another pitfall to avoid is overfilling the jars with sauce. Leave at least 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar to allow for proper sealing during the canning process. Failing to leave enough headspace can lead to siphoning, where sauce leaks out of the jar during processing, compromising the seal.

**Little-Known Facts or Useful Background**

Did you know that canning spaghetti sauce at home not only saves you money but also allows you to customize the sauce to your liking? By making your own Prego spaghetti sauce for canning, you can adjust the seasonings, herbs, and spices to create a sauce that suits your taste preferences. You can also control the amount of salt and sugar in the sauce, making it a healthier option than many store-bought varieties.

**Kitchen Myths or Misunderstandings**

One common misconception about canning spaghetti sauce is that it is a difficult and time-consuming process. While canning does require some preparation and attention to detail, making Prego spaghetti sauce for canning is actually quite simple and straightforward. With the right equipment and a little patience, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for months to come.

**Step-by-Step Recipe or Instructions**

Here is a simple recipe for making Prego spaghetti sauce for canning:

Ingredients:

– 20 lbs ripe tomatoes, peeled, cored, and chopped

– 2 large onions, finely chopped

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped

– 2 tsp salt

– 1 tsp black pepper

– 1/4 cup sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 hours, or until the sauce has thickened.

3. While the sauce is cooking, prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes.

4. Ladle the hot sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids on top, and screw on the rings until fingertip-tight.

5. Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner for 35 minutes. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely before checking the seals.

6. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate any leftover sauce and use within 1 week.

Ingredients	Quantity
Ripe tomatoes	20 lbs
Onions	2 large
Garlic	6 cloves
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Fresh basil	1/4 cup

**Practical Tips**

– Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in your spaghetti sauce.

– Customize the herbs and spices in the sauce to suit your taste preferences. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fennel seeds for a hint of sweetness.

– Label your canned jars with the date and contents to keep track of how long they have been stored.

– Store your canned spaghetti sauce in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality.

– Use a large stockpot with a heavy bottom to prevent the sauce from scorching during the cooking process.

**Searchable Q&A**

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for spaghetti sauce?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in place of fresh tomatoes for spaghetti sauce. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes without added salt or preservatives for the best flavor.

How long does homemade spaghetti sauce last in the pantry?

Properly canned spaghetti sauce can last up to 1 year in the pantry. Once opened, store any leftover sauce in the refrigerator and use it within 1 week.

Can I freeze homemade spaghetti sauce instead of canning it?

Yes, you can freeze homemade spaghetti sauce in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.

**Savings Spotlight 💵**

– Buy tomatoes in bulk when they are in season and can them for use throughout the year.

– Reuse glass jars from store-bought products for canning your own spaghetti sauce.

– Shop for herbs and spices in the bulk section of your grocery store to save money on small quantities.

“Canning your own spaghetti sauce is a budget-friendly way to enjoy the flavors of homemade sauce year-round,” says Sarah C., a home cook with a passion for preserving.

“Customizing your spaghetti sauce allows you to create a sauce that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs,” says Alex M., a culinary enthusiast and canning expert.

**Budget Kitchen Tip 💡**

In conclusion, making Prego spaghetti sauce for canning is a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy homemade sauce year-round. With a few simple ingredients and some basic canning equipment, you can create a delicious sauce that can be stored and enjoyed for months to come. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to create a sauce that suits your taste preferences, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. Happy canning!