Description
A simple and flavorful minced meat sauce, perfect for enhancing pasta dishes, lasagna, or serving as a rich base for baked meals. This classic Italian-style sauce combines ground meat with aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of tomatoes and herbs, simmered to a thick, savory consistency.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato Base
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat a skillet or saucepan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes, releasing their flavors.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground beef or pork to the pan. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula until it is fully browned, with no pink remaining, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Notes
- You can add a splash of red wine while simmering for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This sauce can be used as a base for lasagna, spaghetti Bolognese, or other pasta recipes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian