A hearty pasta sauce with meat is a timeless classic that brings comfort, flavor, and satisfaction to the dinner table. This recipe is simple to follow, rich in taste, and perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta varieties. Whether you prefer spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, this sauce blends beautifully to create a filling meal. Let’s dive into how to prepare this savory dish and discover tips to make it even more delicious.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make a rich pasta sauce with meat, gather the following ingredients:
- Olive oil for sautéing;
- 1 large onion, finely chopped;
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced;
- 500 grams of ground beef, pork, or a mix of both;
- 1 can (about 800 grams) of crushed tomatoes;
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste;
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano;
- 1 teaspoon dried basil;
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme;
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat);
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste;
- 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity;
- 1 cup beef broth or water;
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish;
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
These ingredients form the foundation of a hearty, flavorful sauce. The combination of meat, tomatoes, herbs, and aromatics makes it both savory and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the base: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent and soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook the meat: Add the ground beef (or a beef-pork mix) to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned evenly. Make sure to drain excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add tomato elements: Stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen its flavor. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and mix well.
- Season the sauce: Sprinkle in oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed. Add a teaspoon of sugar to reduce the sharpness of the tomatoes.
- Simmer: Pour in beef broth or water, bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
- Final touches: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add fresh parsley or basil for brightness.
- Serve with pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss with the sauce. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Pasta Sauce with Meat
- Meat choice: Combining beef and pork creates a deeper flavor. For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken also works well.
- Make ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Double the recipe and freeze half for later use. Simply thaw and reheat for a quick meal.
- Customize flavor: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for extra vegetables and sweetness. A splash of red wine during simmering also enhances depth.
End Note
A pasta sauce with meat recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a comfort food that brings families together. Rich in flavor, versatile, and easy to make, this sauce can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a cozy, memorable experience. Pair it with your favorite pasta, sprinkle some cheese on top, and enjoy a hearty meal that never goes out of style.