Italian Tomato Meat Sauce
A hearty Italian tomato meat sauce with tender beef and pork, rich tomato flavors, perfect for pasta or served over polenta, ideal for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set out a large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in the saucepan.
- Add and cook until lightly browned 1/2 cup chopped onion.
- Add and brown, turning occasionally, 1/2 lb. beef chuck and 1/2 lb. pork shoulder.
- Add slowly a mixture of 7 cups sieved tomatoes, 1 tablespoon salt, and the bay leaf.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for about 2 1/2 hours.
- Add 3/4 cup tomato paste.
- Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, uncovered for about 2 hours more, until thickened.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and meat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you want a leaner sauce, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. You can also use crushed tomatoes instead of sieved tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Don't rush the simmering process; allowing it to cook low and slow helps deepen the flavors, similar to techniques in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty sauce over pasta such as spaghetti or pappardelle for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Italian Beef Soup or can be used as a filling for Italian Beef Manicotti. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added flavor. A side of garlic bread and a simple salad would complete the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last up to 3 months. When reheating, use a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Tomato Meat Sauce contains roughly 747 calories, with 83g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (167% of the Daily Value), potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1478mg per serving (64% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative and can save time. Look for high-quality whole or crushed tomatoes to maintain flavor. If using canned, you might want to adjust the salt to taste since canned varieties can be saltier.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers while sautéing the onions. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. This will give the sauce a nice kick and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare the sauce, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving for the best results.
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).