Welcome to a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! If you're craving a rich, hearty sauce that can elevate any pasta dish, then "Meet My Meat Sauce" is the perfect recipe for you. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 45 minutes of your time, you can whip up a savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you feeling like an Italian maestro in no time. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion finely and mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the ground beef until it browns evenly, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure uniform cooking, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if desired, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté with the beef until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in tomato paste, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the sauce, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce rest for 5 minutes before serving over pasta or using in your desired dish.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option, but don't shy away from a bit of fat for flavor. A mix of ground beef and pork can also add depth to your sauce.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they are just soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for your sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 20 minutes. This not only melds the flavors but also allows the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before serving! Adjust the seasonings to your liking—add more herbs or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your meat sauce over al dente pasta for the best texture, and don't forget a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for that authentic Italian touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
