If you’re craving a rich, hearty, and comforting meal, this authentic Italian Meat Sauce is exactly what you need! Made with ground beef, Italian sausage, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this sauce simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for pasta, lasagna, or even as a topping for garlic bread. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that brings the taste of Italy to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 lb)
- Italian sausage (1/2 lb, casings removed)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Onion (1 medium, finely diced)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Carrot (1 medium, finely diced)
- Celery (1 stalk, finely diced)
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp)
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz)
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz)
- Red wine (1/2 cup, optional)
- Beef broth (1 cup)
- Bay leaf (1)
- Dried oregano (1 tsp)
- Dried basil (1 tsp)
- Sugar (1 tsp, optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt (1 tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Fresh basil (¼ cup, chopped, for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Deglaze
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to deepen in color. If using, add the red wine and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until it reduces by half.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the bay leaf, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer, the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become. Aim for at least 1-2 hours.
Step 6: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot over your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for lasagna or baked ziti. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this meat sauce over spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta. It also works wonderfully in lasagna or as a topping for polenta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Helpful Notes
- For a more authentic flavor, use a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal.
- To make a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage.
- If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Lidia Bastianich recommends simmering the sauce for at least 2-3 hours to fully develop its flavor.
Mario Batali suggests adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Giada De Laurentiis advises using high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
How do I make this sauce gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, like beef broth and tomato paste, are gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I use instead of red wine?
You can substitute the red wine with an equal amount of beef broth or use a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Can I make this sauce in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What can I serve with this sauce?
Serve with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is done when it has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors are rich and well-blended.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley towards the end of cooking enhances the flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too acidic?
Adding a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Enjoy your Authentic Italian Meat Sauce—a hearty, flavorful classic that’s perfect for any pasta night!
