Philip Fidler’s Meat Sauce

Servings: 2 cups Difficulty: Advanced
Hearty, slow-simmered American meatball sauce with rich tomato depth
Philip Fidler's Meat Sauce - Country Living recipe image

This robust meat sauce is a comforting classic that rewards patience with incredible depth of flavor. By browning ground beef meatballs and sweet Italian sausage separately before combining them with onions and garlic, you build layers of savory taste. The mixture simmers gently for two hours in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing the flavors to meld into a thick, rich consistency. It’s perfect for tossing with spaghetti, layering into lasagna, or spooning over polenta. The addition of fresh parsley and oregano brightens the hearty meatiness, while the bread in the meatballs keeps them tender and juicy. A true home-style favorite that tastes even better the next day.

Philip Fidler’s Meat Sauce

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2 cups Calories: 1090.7

Description

This robust meat sauce is a comforting classic that rewards patience with incredible depth of flavor. By browning ground beef meatballs and sweet Italian sausage separately before combining them with onions and garlic, you build layers of savory taste. The mixture simmers gently for two hours in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing the flavors to meld into a thick, rich consistency. It's perfect for tossing with spaghetti, layering into lasagna, or spooning over polenta. The addition of fresh parsley and oregano brightens the hearty meatiness, while the bread in the meatballs keeps them tender and juicy. A true home-style favorite that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, 1/2 cup water, parsley, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Shape the beef mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and refrigerate until firm.
  3. In an 8-quart saucepot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until golden brown.
  5. Remove onions and garlic to a large bowl and set aside.
  6. Add meatballs to the saucepot in batches (one-third at a time) and brown on all sides.
  7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the browned meatballs to the bowl with the onion mixture.
  8. Add sausage chunks to the pot; sauté until browned and cooked through.
  9. Using a slotted spoon, remove the sausage to the bowl with the meatballs and onions.
  10. Drain excess fat from the saucepot.
  11. Return the onions, garlic, meatballs, and sausage to the pot.
  12. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, remaining 1/2 cup water, and 1 tablespoon oregano, stirring gently to combine.
  13. Reduce heat to very low and simmer uncovered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  14. If desired, cook spaghetti according to package directions just before serving.
  15. Drain pasta, divide among serving plates, and top with meatballs, sausage, and sauce.
  16. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups


Amount Per Serving
Calories 1090.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 54.0g84%
Saturated Fat 21.0g105%
Cholesterol 265.6mg89%
Sodium 687.1mg29%
Total Carbohydrate 44.1g15%
Dietary Fiber 2.4g10%
Sugars 4.5g
Protein 96.6g194%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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