Easy Meat Sauce

This Easy Meat Sauce is rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor. A perfect topping for pasta or a base for lasagna, this sauce combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and Italian seasonings for a comforting homemade taste. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your pantry, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

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Ingredients

• Protein & Aromatics:
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Tomato Base:
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with juices, 1 can)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• Flavor Boosters:
• ¼ cup dry red wine (or beef broth)
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 2 bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, red wine, bell pepper, parsley, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, sugar, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine.

3. Simmer the Sauce:
Cover the pot and simmer the sauce on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Thicken the Sauce:
Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

5. Serve:
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Pair the sauce with your favorite pasta, spoon it over spaghetti squash, or use it as a filling for lasagna.

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Tips for the Best Meat Sauce

• Choose Lean Meat:
  Lean ground beef keeps the sauce flavorful without excess grease.
• Customize the Veggies:
  Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Wine Substitutes:
  If you prefer not to use red wine, beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar are great alternatives.
• Batch Cooking:
  Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick meals later. This sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
• Herb Swaps:
  Fresh basil or oregano can be used instead of Italian seasoning for a fresher flavor.

This classic meat sauce will elevate your favorite pasta dishes, making every bite full of bold, savory goodness. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal!