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–+ servings
Italian Meat Sauce

Hearty Italian Meat Sauce Packed with Flavor and Love

This Italian Meat Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for enhancing any pasta dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Adds richness and depth; use a high-quality oil for the best flavor.
  • 1 large sweet onion Provides a sweet base; Vidalia onions work wonders here.
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground veal At least 85% lean is ideal for maximum flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Essential for depth of flavor; adjust to your taste for a more robust kick.
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic Seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt Seasoning staple; add to taste for the perfect balance.
  • to taste black pepper Seasoning staple; add to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Enhances thickness and richness.
  • 1 28-ounce can ground peeled tomatoes Provides essential texture.
  • 1 28-ounce can tomato puree Contributes to a thick and rich consistency.
  • to taste fresh basil Offers a fresh, herbaceous note; substitute with dried if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity from the tomatoes; optional.

Equipment

  • large heavy-bottomed pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Meat Sauce
  1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat for about 1 minute.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-8 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Introduce the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef and/or veal and brown for 7-10 minutes while breaking it up.
  5. Sprinkle in the granulated garlic, salt, and pepper, mixing to combine.
  6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it darkens for about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Incorporate the ground peeled tomatoes and tomato puree, breaking up large chunks.
  8. Stir in the sugar and fresh basil, mixing everything thoroughly.
  9. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for about 1 hour.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

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