Classic Meat Sauce Recipe: Rich, Hearty, and Full of Flavor

Few things are as comforting and satisfying as a big bowl of pasta smothered in homemade meat sauce. This classic recipe, rooted in Italian-American kitchens, is a staple for busy weeknights and family dinners alike. It’s rich, savory, and layered with slow-cooked flavor—just the way it should be.

Whether you’re making lasagna, spaghetti, or baked ziti, a good meat sauce can make all the difference. It’s also incredibly versatile: simmer it for a deeper flavor, freeze it for later, or tweak the spices to suit your personal taste. This version uses a mix of ground beef and pork for depth and a tomato base enhanced with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs.

Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making sauce from scratch. This recipe is straightforward, delicious, and can be made in one pot. Let’s dive in!

🕒 Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45–60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes

• Yield: About 6 cups

• Serving Size: ~1 cup

• Servings: 6

🧂 Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)

• ½ pound ground pork (optional, or use all beef)

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

🍳 How to Make Meat Sauce

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

• Add ground beef and pork to the pot.

• Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

• Add sugar, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

• Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

• Reduce heat to low and cover partially with a lid.

• Simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

• Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.

• Serve over your favorite pasta or use in lasagna, baked ziti, or meatball subs.

• Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan if desired.

📝 Notes

• For extra richness, add a splash of red wine with the tomatoes.

• Want a smoother sauce? Use an immersion blender briefly before adding meat.

• Sauce freezes well for up to 3 months—great for meal prep!

• To make this gluten-free, serve with gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this meat sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer.

Q: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well—just be sure to add a bit more olive oil for moisture.

Q: Why do some people add sugar to meat sauce?
A: Sugar helps balance the acidity of tomatoes, especially if using canned varieties.

Q: How can I make this spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce during the simmering stage.

Q: Is this the same as Bolognese?
A: Not quite. Bolognese is typically creamier, includes milk or cream, and has a longer cooking time.

🧾 Nutrition Information

Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended for general use and enjoyment. Always eat in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Individuals with food allergies—especially to tomatoes, garlic, or meat—should consult a healthcare professional before trying new recipes. For reduced fat or sodium, adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs.