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Meat Sauce Recipe
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Indulge in the timeless Italian tradition of rich, savory Meat Sauce. This Classic Meat Sauce recipe brings together ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a tomato-based sauce for a comforting, versatile dish. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a hearty topping, this recipe is a culinary staple with a rich history and endless possibilities for customization (including vegetarian and vegan substitutions!).
Classic Meat Sauce Recipe: A Timeless Italian Favorite
We're diving into the heart of Italian cuisine with a timeless classic: Meat Sauce. Whether you call it Bolognese, Ragu, or simply Meat Sauce, this rich and savory concoction has endless possibilities for customization. Join us on a journey through the origins, preparation, and variations of this beloved recipe.
The History of Meat Sauce
The origins of Meat Sauce can be traced back to Italy, where it's a staple in countless regional dishes. While the specific recipe may vary from region to region, the concept of simmering meat in a flavorful tomato-based sauce has been a cherished tradition for generations.
Classic Meat Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- Β½ cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Stovetop Method:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sautΓ© until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Slow Cooker Method:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. SautΓ© onions and garlic until soft.
- Transfer the sautΓ©ed onions and garlic to a slow cooker. Add ground beef, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve as directed above.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or saucepan (for stovetop method)
- Slow cooker (for slow cooker method)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Can opener
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use a quality red wine for depth of flavor.
- Simmer the sauce low and slow for a richer taste.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste.
Customization and Variations
- Add ground pork or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate diced vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Diet and Lifestyles
- Keto-friendly (omit the wine and use sugar-free tomato sauce)
- Gluten-free (served with gluten-free pasta)
- Paleo (served over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice)
Special Events and Occasions
- Perfect for family dinners
- Ideal for date nights
- Great for potlucks and gatherings
Suggested Recipes and Meal Ideas
- Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
- Use as a topping for homemade pizza.
- Spoon over baked potatoes for a hearty twist.
Final Thoughts:
Now that you have the perfect Classic Meat Sauce recipe, you can savor the rich history and diverse variations of this Italian classic in your own kitchen. Whether you're cooking it up for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, Meat Sauce is always a crowd-pleaser. Don't forget to customize and make it your own β the possibilities are endless!
Meat Sauce Recipe
Indulge in the timeless Italian tradition of rich, savory Meat Sauce. This Classic Meat Sauce recipe brings together ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a tomato-based sauce for a comforting, versatile dish. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a hearty topping, this recipe is a culinary staple with a rich history and endless possibilities for customization (including vegetarian and vegan substitutions!).
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- Β½ cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Stovetop Method:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Slow Cooker Method:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to a slow cooker. Add ground beef, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve as directed above.
Notes
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or saucepan (for stovetop method)
- Slow cooker (for slow cooker method)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Can opener
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use a quality red wine for depth of flavor.
- Simmer the sauce low and slow for a richer taste.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste.
Customization and Variations
- Add ground pork or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate diced vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Vegetarian Substitutes:
- Plant-Based Ground Meat: Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground meat substitute, such as Beyond Meat, Impossible Burger, or homemade lentil-walnut crumbles. Cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Finely chop a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello to mimic the meaty texture. SautΓ© the mushrooms until they release their moisture and brown, then proceed with the recipe.
- Tempeh or Tofu: Crumble tempeh or extra-firm tofu and brown it in a skillet before adding it to the sauce. These options provide a nice texture and absorb the flavors well.
Vegan Substitutes:
- Vegan Red Wine: Ensure the red wine used is vegan-friendly, as some wines use animal-derived fining agents. Many brands now produce vegan wines, so check the label or ask at your local wine store.
- Vegan Cheese: If you plan to top your pasta with cheese, use a vegan cheese alternative. There are many dairy-free cheese options available made from almonds, cashews, or soy.
- Pasta: Choose vegan pasta varieties made without eggs, such as traditional semolina pasta or pasta made from chickpea flour, rice, or quinoa.
With these substitutions, you can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of the classic meat sauce, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of this beloved Italian dish while adhering to your dietary preferences.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 420Total Fat: 27gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 101mgSodium: 238mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 32g
Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating β it helps others find the recipe!
- First published: 9/20/2023
Owner at Life's Little Sweets
Lifeβs Little Sweets is a seasonal cooking and local food blog featuring farm-to-table recipes, CSA inspiration, and creative ways to enjoy whatβs fresh and in season.
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