How to Make a Delicious Italian Meat Sauce

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground chicken

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground chicken is often less expensive.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: beef broth

Grape juice adds sweetness without alcohol, and broth is a budget-friendly option.

Parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free, while pecorino is often less expensive.

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: store-brand canned tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes can be healthier, while store brands save money.

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a 7 quart Dutch oven.

Add 1 large diced onion and a pinch of salt; sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Mince 6 garlic cloves and add to the onions; cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to build flavor.

Pour in 3/4 cup of dry red wine; cook for about 3 minutes to cook off some alcohol.

Add 3 (28 oz) cans of whole plum tomatoes; break them up with your hands and stir into the meat mixture.

Rinse the tomato cans with a little water and add that to the sauce.

Add 2 pieces of Parmesan rind, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper; mix well.

Partially cover the pot and let simmer on low for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens