Experience the heart of Italian comfort food with this classic Italian Meat Sauce.
Bursting with rich, savory flavors, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, lasagna, or even a slice of crusty bread.
Crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients, this sauce is slow-simmered to perfection, making it an irresistible staple for family dinners or special occasions.
Whether you’re recreating a traditional Italian meal or looking for a go-to meat sauce recipe, this one promises authentic taste in every bite.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 carrot (finely chopped)
1 celery stalk (finely chopped)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with broth)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Brown the MeatAdd Ground Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (and pork if using).
Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the SauceAdd Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2minutes.
Deglaze: Pour in the red wine (or broth) and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to reduceslightly.
Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer.Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.Step 5: Serve
Pair with Pasta: Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it in lasagna or other dishes.
Garnish: Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.Tips for Perfect Meat Sauce
Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so consider making it inadvance.
Freezing: Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Customize: Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use different herbs for a personalized touch.
ConclusionThis authentic Italian meat sauce is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
It’s rich, hearty, and sure to become a favorite in your household!Stay ConnectedFor more Italian recipes and cooking tips, subscribe to our newsletter and share your meat sauce creations with us using
For a lighter version of this Italian Meat Sauce, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
To enhance the flavor and nutrition, add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle in some red chili flakes. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique twist.
If you want a richer sauce, use a mix of beef and pork or simmer the sauce a bit longer for a deeper flavor.
This recipe is also adaptable for slow cookers—just brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
To store Italian Meat Sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it an excellent meal prep option.
For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months.
When freezing, divide the sauce into smaller portions for easier thawing.
To reheat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
This Italian Meat Sauce is not only flavorful but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients.
A typical serving (without pasta) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of meat and oil used.
It’s rich in protein from the ground beef, offering essential amino acids to support muscle growth and repair.
The tomatoes contribute a healthy dose of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health.
Adding vegetables like carrots and celery boosts the fiber and vitamin content, making it a wholesome choice.
For a lower-calorie option, use lean meat or ground turkey and reduce the amount of oil.
Pairing it with whole-grain pasta can further enhance the nutritional value of your meal.