Beef Sauce
A rich, savory beef sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, perfect for pasta or serving over rice; hearty and flavorful for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and fry until browned.
- Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, water, chopped parsley, sugar, pepper, celery salt, salt, and bay leaf.
- Simmer the mixture for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Keep on a low flame during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the water or let it simmer longer. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones, but use them sparingly. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey instead of beef. This beef sauce pairs beautifully with Vena'S Spaghetti Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beef sauce over your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, for a hearty meal. It also works well as a base for a lasagna or as a filling for stuffed peppers. Consider pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner. For a cozy night in, try it alongside Iliana'S 'Veal Marsala'.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beef sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Sauce contains roughly 489 calories, with 27g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), and potassium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1526mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, then chop and add them to the recipe. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down and develop flavor.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times and flavors may vary slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. You could also serve it with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper on top for an extra kick.
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).