All-Purpose Meat Sauce
A hearty, flavorful meat sauce with rich tomato and spice notes, perfect for pasta lovers and family dinners seeking comfort and robust taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and garlic in a small amount of oil until soft.
- Brown ground beef, breaking it up finely as it cooks.
- Mix the spaghetti sauce mix according to directions and add 1 cup to the meat mixture, saving the remainder in the freezer for next time.
- Add the remaining ingredients, mixing well, and simmer, covered, for several hours, stirring frequently.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a little hot water or more tomato sauce.
- Serve with Parmesan cheese when using as spaghetti sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some red wine while the beef is browning. If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Fresh oregano can replace dried for a more vibrant taste, but use it sparingly as it is stronger.
Serving Suggestions
This meat sauce serves wonderfully over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. It pairs beautifully with Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad and garlic bread. You can also use it in recipes like lasagna or baked ziti for a hearty twist. For a comforting dinner, try it alongside Karo Winter Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if the sauce has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of All-Purpose Meat Sauce contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use canned crushed or diced tomatoes as a substitute for tomato sauce. Just blend them until smooth if you prefer a sauce-like texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, so taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How can I thicken the sauce if it's too watery?
If your sauce is too watery, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce, which will help thicken it quickly.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This meat sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).