Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Classic Minced Meat Sauce, a versatile recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Made with ground beef, aromatic vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery, and a blend of herbs including oregano and basil, this sauce is simmered to perfection in a hearty combination of crushed tomatoes and beef broth. A hint of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while a bay leaf adds depth to every bite. Ready in just under an hour with minimal prep, this savory meat sauce is ideal served over your favorite pasta, rice, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and bursting with flavor, it’s a must-have recipe in your meal rotation.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Chop the onion, carrot, and celery finely and add them to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, about 8-10 minutes.
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir to combine.
Add the tomato paste, mixing it well into the beef and vegetable mixture.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring until combined.
Add the bay leaf and sugar, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Chop the fresh parsley and stir it into the sauce just before serving.
Serve the minced meat sauce hot over pasta or rice, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Calories |
1773 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 123.6 g | 158% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.9 g | 204% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 313 mg | 104% | |
| Sodium | 3729 mg | 162% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 79.2 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.2 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 43.6 g | ||
| Protein | 91.9 g | 184% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 372 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 17.9 mg | 99% | |
| Potassium | 3710 mg | 79% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.