Italian Meat Sauce

Italian Meat Sauce is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, this sauce is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether served over pasta, baked in lasagna, or used in a hearty meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Italian Meat Sauce is not just about creating a filling meal; it’s about sharing love and tradition with family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t take much time to prepare. The aroma of the sauce simmering on the stove will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager to dig in. Plus, it’s a great way to use ground meats, tomatoes, and spices you likely already have in your pantry.

How to Make Italian Meat Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
5. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
7. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
8. Simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
9. Serve over your choice of pasta and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

How to Serve Italian Meat Sauce

Italian Meat Sauce is best served hot over freshly cooked pasta. You can also offer it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. Top it with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch.

How to Store Italian Meat Sauce

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Italian Meat Sauce

• Feel free to adjust the herbs to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick!
• For a deeper flavor, let it simmer for longer than an hour.
• Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice!

Variation

You can make a meatless version by using lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. This will give you a delicious vegetarian Italian sauce that is still hearty and satisfying.

FAQs

1. Can I use just ground beef or pork? Yes, you can use either ground beef or pork alone if you prefer. The sauce will still be flavorful!

2. How long does it take to make this sauce? The total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It even tastes better the next day!