Homemade Meat Sauce
A rich and flavorful homemade meat sauce perfect for spaghetti, lasagna, or dipping bread. Made with fresh ingredients and simmered to perfection, this sauce combines ground beef, quality tomatoes, and aromatic herbs for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef 85% lean recommended
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium carrot finely chopped
- 1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes drained and crushed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp brown sugar optional, to balance acidity
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and finely chop the carrot. Measure out herbs and spices, and open the can of tomatoes.
Brown the Meat
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove meat and set aside.
Cook Aromatics
- In the same pot, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and carrot, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Build the Sauce
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, browned beef, basil, oregano, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer
- Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add water if sauce becomes too thick. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
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