There’s something about the aroma of a simmering meat sauce that promises a hug in a bowl. It reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where the sauce was always a bit too salty but somehow perfect. Whether you’re a pasta connoisseur or just in need of comfort on a rainy day, this homemade Italian meat sauce is like that one song you can’t get out of your head—warm, rich, and unforgettable.
Steps
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green pepper in a large saucepan.
- Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and crumbly, and the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pan, mixing them thoroughly with the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about one hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the sauce is thickened and aromatic, serve it hot over cooked spaghetti noodles. Enjoy the meal with your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1480 | Total Fat: 72g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Cholesterol: 280mg | Sodium: 7448mg | Total Carbohydrate: 120g | Dietary Fiber: 32g | Total Sugars: 72g | Protein: 96g | Vitamin C: 224mg | Calcium: 576mg | Iron: 32mg | Potassium: 6280mg
FAQ
- How can I fix a spaghetti sauce that is too thin?
- If your spaghetti sauce turns out runny, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, create a slurry by mixing equal parts water and cornstarch and slowly stir it into the sauce until you achieve the desired consistency.
- What herbs are suitable for seasoning spaghetti sauce?
- This recipe includes garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. However, you can customize the flavor by adding other herbs like parsley or a bit of crushed red pepper for some heat. Always taste the sauce as you adjust the seasonings to ensure the flavor is balanced.
- How long should I let my spaghetti sauce simmer?
- For a rich texture and flavor, it’s recommended to simmer the spaghetti sauce for about an hour. If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the simmering time slightly, or let it cook longer for a thicker consistency.
- Can I freeze leftover spaghetti sauce?
- Yes, spaghetti sauce can be frozen for later use. Portion it into freezer bags, remove excess air, and seal them. Label each bag with the date, lay them flat in the freezer, and store for up to six months.
- How should I reheat frozen spaghetti sauce?
- Thaw frozen spaghetti sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop, stirring frequently, or use the microwave in short increments, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
Tips
- To achieve a perfectly thick spaghetti sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, you can quickly thicken it by mixing equal parts cornstarch and water, then adding the mixture to the sauce gradually while stirring.
- Experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences. While the recipe calls for oregano and basil, you might enjoy adding parsley or a dash of crushed red pepper for extra flavor. Always taste the sauce as you adjust the seasonings to ensure balance.
- If you plan to freeze leftover spaghetti sauce, portion it into zip-top freezer bags, removing excess air before sealing. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage, and use within six months for best results.
- For reheating frozen spaghetti sauce, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, warm it on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure even heating, or use the microwave in short increments, stirring in between.
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot – If you do not already have a suitable saucepan for simmering sauces, you might consider purchasing one.
- Garlic press – Useful for mincing garlic efficiently.
- Can opener – Essential for opening the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
