There’s nothing quite like a rich, hearty meat sauce to elevate your pasta dishes and warm your soul. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It combines ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of herbs, simmered to perfection for a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it over spaghetti, use it in lasagna, or enjoy it as a topping for baked potatoes. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Mix well to combine.
- Season the Sauce: Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For an even deeper flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta, or use it in lasagna. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy this comforting meat sauce, perfect for any pasta lover!
