Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Authentic Italian Style
Try this Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Authentic Italian Style recipe.
Try this Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Authentic Italian Style recipe.
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil divided
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 3/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef (85% or 90%)
- 1 medium carrot finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans crushed roma tomatoes (i recommend co
- 1 tsp dried rosemary crushed
- 1/2 - 1 cup chicken or beef broth to thin sauce if desired
- freshly finely grated romano and parmesan cheese o
- Carbohydrate 10.3508399994846 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 26.370841271728 g
- Fiber 3.04904999573561 g
- Protein 1.428978749912 g
- Saturated Fat 3.76987125299025 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (794g)
- Sodium 9.3566250003162 mg
- Sugar 7.30179000374895 g
- Trans Fat 0.820193000577094 g
- Calories 274 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large non-stick sauce pot, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium high heat.
- Crumble ground beef into pot (approximately 1 inch pieces).
- Brown beef, stirring occasionally, and breaking up beef as you stir, until cooked through.
- Drain ground beef, reserving 1 Tbsp fat in pot.
- Place browned beef in a food processor and pulse until finely ground, about 10 - 15 seconds, set aside.
- Sauté carrot and onion in reserved fat over medium high heat until golden, about 4 minutes, adding in garlic during the last minute of sauteing.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 cans crushed Roma tomatoes, remaining 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, oregano, marjoram, sage, bay leaves, salt, pepper and browned beef.
- Return pot to low heat and simmer uncovered, 5 - 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add broth to sauce to thin sauce if desired (at about 4 hours sauce will be pretty thick so if you want it any thinner just add broth to desired consistency. Also, once it reaches the thickness you want you can cover it with a lid to reduce further condensation).
- Remove bay leaves and serve sauce warm over pasta garnished with grated cheeses and additional chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
My Secret to the Best Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for my family can be challenging. But for me, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of simmering spaghetti sauce filling my kitchen. It reminds me of simpler times, of lazy Sundays spent with my family, enjoying a simple yet hearty meal. This isn't just any spaghetti with meat sauce recipe, it's a labor of love, a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most rewarding.
This recipe, passed down from my Nonna, has been a staple in our family for generations. It’s a true authentic Italian recipe, the kind that takes time and patience, but the result is beyond worth the effort. The secret, you ask? It’s all in the simmering. Five to eight hours of slow, gentle simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a rich and complex sauce that’s simply unforgettable. The long simmering time isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating a connection to the past, a ritual of sorts. It's a chance to unwind, put on some music, and let the simple act of cooking transport me to another time and place. And while it does take time, the deliciousness of the result more than justifies that waiting time.
The ingredients themselves are simple, readily available, and yet they combine to produce a symphony of flavor. The fragrant herbs – basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, and sage – dance together, complementing the rich earthiness of the ground beef and the sweetness of the carrots and onions. The crushed Roma tomatoes provide a vibrant acidity that balances the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and comforting. While some might prefer a quick and easy sauce, there is something incredibly special about this slow-cooked version. It is a dish made with love and care, and the time invested shines through in every bite.
This recipe isn't just about feeding my family; it's about creating memories. It's about sharing a meal that’s steeped in tradition and love, a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. As I stir the sauce, watching it thicken and deepen in color, I can almost taste the memories contained within each simmering drop. It's a legacy that I cherish and hope to pass on to my own children, teaching them the value of patience, tradition, and the art of creating something truly special in the kitchen. It’s a reminder that the most cherished moments are often found not in fast-paced activities, but in the simple joy of sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones.
Preparation is Key: Before you begin, make sure to finely grate your carrots and dice your onions. The finer the chop, the better the sauce will be incorporated. Mincing the garlic is also crucial – this ensures that the garlic flavor is evenly distributed throughout the sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s a small investment of time that will greatly enhance the overall flavor profile. This attention to detail is what sets this recipe apart from the rest.
The Art of Simmering: The five to eight-hour simmering period is where the magic truly happens. During this time, the flavors of the ingredients meld and deepen, creating a rich and complex sauce that’s simply unparalleled. This slow cooking process is what makes this spaghetti sauce stand out from the others. While the initial preparation requires a little work, the hands-off simmering allows you to pursue other tasks, while the magic of this classic Italian recipe unfolds. And when it is ready, the aroma filling your home will be irresistible.
Serving Suggestions: While this sauce is fantastic on its own, it’s even better when served with freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheese. The sharp, salty taste of the cheese perfectly complements the rich and savory meat sauce, adding a final touch of elegance to the dish. Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of freshness and color that completes the visual appeal and enhances the taste. A simple side salad or crusty bread make for perfect complements to this hearty meal, creating a balanced culinary experience.
Beyond the Recipe: This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. It's about taking the time to connect with your food, to understand the process, and to appreciate the simple pleasures of cooking. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding things in life take time, effort, and a little bit of love. So, take a deep breath, put on some music, and enjoy the journey of creating this delicious and authentic Italian spaghetti with meat sauce.
The memories made while preparing and sharing this dish are just as important, if not more so, than the meal itself. It is a testament to the power of simple pleasures and the importance of slowing down to appreciate the moments that truly matter. So, gather your family, friends, or even enjoy a quiet evening alone, and savor every bite of this heartwarming Italian classic.
