RysJunk: And I dont even like Spaghetti...

First off, I should tell you that I don't even like spaghetti- or red sauces in general.

however, on the rare occasion that I do crave the meaty red warm garlicky goodness... This is where I turn. This was given to me by a friend who got it from his mom who got it from someone who got it from someone... and so on- apparently it's legitimately Italian or from Italy...It tastes amazing, so I don't really need its pedigree.

And it makes enough for about 300 people, so be prepared (but honestly the left overs are ALWAYS better when your talking about spaghetti! Right??)

This is the original....

1 lbs Ground beef or sausage (I have tried both and 50/50 sausage is the way to go- and I double mine...)

1 medium Onion

1 cup sliced mushrooms (canned or fresh, also tried both, I vote fresh)

2-3 (12-13oz) cans of tomato sauce

1 Tbs chopped garlic (the slurry in the little jar works perfect)

1 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning

Salt / Pepper to taste

2-3 Tbs Sugar

My additions: Not sure where I got it (I swear the recipe called for it once) but I add a 5oz can of tomato past to thicken it up, red-pepper flakes and Cherry tomato's if I have them

OK, let the foodie-blogging-begin!!

I mix mild and hot sausage because I like a little kick to it

I cook up the sausage AND I mix in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes now

When the sausage is done cooking I take it out and drain out the grease just a little...

After chopping up the onions, I saute them with garlic and salt & pepper

I split the cherry tomato's- The recipe is fine without these, but I usually have some laying around that need used

When the onions are nice and golden and soft and makes your house smell AMAZING, mix in the mushrooms to soften them up a little- not to much.

When the onions, garlic, and mushrooms have all been mixed and softened up a little, mix in the meat and the tomato's (Including the cans of tomato sauce

and tomato paste)

And last but not least, don't forget the couple tablespoons of sugar- I hate sweet sauces, but honestly you cant even tell its in there, this is very savory... but it makes a difference when you don't