Italian Spaghetti Meat Sauce
A hearty Italian spaghetti meat sauce rich with tomatoes, beef, pork, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving authentic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind beef and pork together.
- Brown the meat, onion, parsley, and garlic in about 3 tablespoons of oil.
- Add grated cheese and oregano to the meat mixture.
- Combine all ingredients with the tomato puree, tomato paste, water, and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. Fresh herbs like basil can also enhance the sauce's flavor profile. If you don't have tomato paste, you can use extra tomato puree, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. For an Italian twist, try pairing this with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti meat sauce is perfect served over your favorite pasta. For a hearty meal, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. For a family-friendly twist, serve with a side of 'Quick Italian Bake' for an easy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally to heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Spaghetti Meat Sauce contains roughly 908 calories, with 26g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (213% of the Daily Value), and calcium (135% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 60g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
Yes, using ground turkey is a great way to lighten up the dish. It will still be flavorful, especially when seasoned well. Keep in mind that turkey may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce, allowing it to cook for a few more minutes.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
While spaghetti is traditional, this meat sauce pairs well with any pasta shape, like penne or fettuccine. Choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well. For a fun variation, try serving it over zoodles for a low-carb option.
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).