"Italiano" Spaghetti Sauce
Rich and hearty Italian spaghetti sauce featuring ground sirloin, garlic, and tomato sauce, simmered to develop deep flavors—perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown ground sirloin, olive oil, and minced garlic together.
- Add tomato sauce and water once browned.
- Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer for at least 3 hours (6 hours is better).
- Serve over 1 pound of cooked spaghetti.
- Enjoy with tossed green salad and garlic toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce. If ground sirloin is unavailable, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Fresh basil and oregano can enhance the sauce's aroma; add them in the last hour of simmering for the best flavor. This sauce also works well with Joanne Engelman'S Spaghetti Sauce(Also Used For Manicotti, Lasagna And Mostaccioli).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sauce generously over freshly cooked spaghetti, and consider garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a Typical Italian Salad and garlic toast for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with Italian Pizza or alongside crusty bread for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Italiano" Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 2086 calories, with 18g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 205g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spaghetti sauce tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this sauce by substituting the ground sirloin with lentils or mushrooms. For a vegan option, use a plant-based ground meat alternative and ensure any cheese served on top is dairy-free.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while the sauce is simmering. Start with a small amount and taste as it cooks to achieve your desired level of heat.
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).