Heat olive oil in large pot. Add onion and garlic and cook until onions are transparent. Add water, oregano, and basil.

Add crushed tomatoes. Rinse cans with a little water and add to pot. Add 1 tbsp sugar and cook over low heat.

Add red pepper flakes, pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan. Bring to a boil and cover (if not adding meatballs). Cook for about a half hour.

If adding meatballs: keep over low heat, cover, and cook for 1 hour. Stir periodically. Keep at low boil / simmer.