Mamma Mia Meat Sauce
A hearty Italian meat sauce with rich tomato flavors, perfect for pasta lovers and family dinners, offering savory and aromatic notes in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large (6-quart) pot, cook the ground chuck until it loses its pinkness.
- Drain the fat, then return the meat to the heat.
- Add tomato paste, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and olive oil to the meat.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring often.
- The sauce makes about 5 quarts and freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of ground chuck and Italian sausage. If you're out of oregano, dried basil can serve as a good substitute. Always taste and adjust the salt as needed; you can enhance the sauce with a splash of red wine for depth. Fresh parsley can elevate the dish, but dried works in a pinch. This sauce is perfect for pasta or as a base for dishes like Snails With Tomato Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce is perfect over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve with a fresh salad or a slice of Biscotto Di Regina for dessert. It can also be used as a hearty topping for baked potatoes or served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamma Mia Meat Sauce contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 1g 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 ground turkey instead of ground chuck?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground chuck. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you may want to enhance it with additional spices or herbs. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink.
How do I know when the sauce is done cooking?
The sauce is done when it has thickened and the flavors have melded together, usually after simmering for about 1 1/2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste it towards the end to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely, this sauce can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve.
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).