This classic meat sauce is the cornerstone of Italian home cooking. A robust blend of lean ground beef, aromatic soffritto, and rich tomato paste creates a deep, savory flavor profile that pairs perfectly with spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti. The addition of dry white wine adds acidity and complexity, while the long simmer allows the flavors to meld into a luxurious, velvety texture. ItâÂÂs a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this versatile sauce freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness all week long.
Meat Sauce
Description
This classic meat sauce is the cornerstone of Italian home cooking. A robust blend of lean ground beef, aromatic soffritto, and rich tomato paste creates a deep, savory flavor profile that pairs perfectly with spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti. The addition of dry white wine adds acidity and complexity, while the long simmer allows the flavors to meld into a luxurious, velvety texture. ItâÂÂs a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this versatile sauce freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness all week long.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add the quartered onion, chopped carrot, and celery stalk to the pot.
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Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Add 1 lb of lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
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Cook the beef until browned and no longer pink, draining excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce.
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Mix in 2/3 cup of tomato paste, coating the meat evenly.
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Add 1 1/2 cups of beef stock or water to the pot.
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Season with salt to taste and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Serve warm over your choice of pasta or use as a base for lasagna.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 13.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 26.2mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.2g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
- Sugars 1.5g
- Protein 0.4g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The large vegetable chunks (onion, carrot, celery) are often added whole to infuse flavor and then discarded before serving for a smoother texture. If you prefer a rustic sauce with visible vegetables, chop them finely before adding to the pot.
"Olio di arrosto" typically refers to roasting oil, often beef fat or a seasoned oil. If unavailable, olive oil or vegetable oil works well.
This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
