The Ultimate Guide to Canning Spaghetti Sauce at Home

Preserving your own spaghetti sauce is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier,This homemade canning recipe is packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and bold flavors while keeping the points low. Perfect for pasta nights, casseroles, or even as a dipping sauce!

Why Make Your Own Canned Spaghetti Sauce?

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: Store-bought sauces can be high in sugar and oils. This recipe keeps it light and healthy.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices, veggies, and salt levels to your taste.
• Convenience: Have ready-to-use sauce on hand for quick and easy meals.

Ingredients

(Makes about 6–8 pint jars | WW Points: 0–2 points per serving, depending on your plan)

• 20 medium tomatoes (about 8–10 lbs, peeled, seeded, and chopped)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium green bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, grated (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, can be omitted for 0 points)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (for each pint jar, to ensure safety during canning)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot
• Canning jars with lids and rings
• Jar lifter and canning funnel
• Large water bath canner

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to an ice bath.
2. Peel, seed, and chop the tomatoes.

Cook the Sauce

1. In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil (if using). Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
2. Stir in the grated carrot, tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Blend (Optional)

1. For a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to your desired consistency.

Sterilize Jars

1. Wash jars, lids, and rings in hot soapy water.
2. Place jars in a water bath canner and boil for 10 minutes to sterilize.

Fill the Jars

1. Add 1/4 cup lemon juice to each pint jar to ensure acidity for safe canning.
2. Ladle the hot sauce into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
3. Wipe the jar rims clean and secure the lids and rings.

Process the Jars

1. Place the filled jars in the water bath canner, ensuring they are fully submerged.
2. Bring to a boil and process for 35 minutes for pint jars or 40 minutes for quart jars.

Cool and Store

1. Remove jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel-lined surface for 12–24 hours.
2. Check the seals before storing. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Nutritional Information

(Per 1/2 cup serving)

• Calories: 35–50
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 0–1g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: 0–2

Tips for Success

1. Use Roma Tomatoes: Their meatiness makes for a thicker sauce.
2. Skip the Oil for 0 Points: Omit olive oil for an even lighter version.
3. Season to Taste: Add more spices like thyme or parsley for added flavor.
4. Safety First: Always include the recommended lemon juice to maintain acidity levels for safe canning.

Serving Suggestions

• Toss with whole-grain pasta for a low-point dinner.
• Use as a base for Weight Watchers pizza or baked eggplant Parmesan.
• Serve over spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.

Why You’ll Love It

This Weight Watchers-friendly canned spaghetti sauce is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for making healthy meals a breeze. By preparing it yourself, you can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade quality while staying on track with your wellness goals.

Enjoy your pasta nights with confidence!