The Ultimate Hearty Meat Sauce Recipe: A Flavorful Classic
The Secret to a Perfect Homemade Meat Sauce
Why This Meat Sauce Recipe Stands Out
This delicious homemade meat sauce is a staple for any kitchen. Packed with rich flavors, this sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or even as a filling for lasagna. Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this flavorful dish will elevate any meal.
Made with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and quality minced meat, this meat sauce recipe is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. Unlike store-bought options, a homemade version lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, preservative-free dish.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
This recipe uses a combination of fresh vegetables, lean minced meat, and flavorful seasonings. Here’s a breakdown of why these ingredients make this sauce truly special:
Carrot (100 g): Carrots add a subtle sweetness, balancing the acidity of tomatoes while enriching the sauce with vitamins A and C.
Onion (100 g): Provides a deep, savory flavor base that enhances the richness of the sauce.
Garlic (1 clove): A must-have for any classic sauce, garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant and slightly spicy undertone.
Celery Sticks (50 g): Adds an earthy depth, improving the overall texture and nutrition profile.
Olive Oil (15 g): A healthy fat source, olive oil contributes to the sauce’s smooth consistency while enriching the flavor.
Minced Beef (700 g) or a Combination of Pork and Beef: Using half beef and half pork provides a rich umami taste and tender texture.
Dried Provencal Herbs (2 tsp): A mix of aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano brings an authentic Mediterranean touch.
Hot Chili Powder (1 pinch): Adds a mild heat that enhances the depth of flavors without overpowering the dish.
Peeled Tomatoes in Juice (400g): These tomatoes are the heart of the sauce, providing a thick base and natural sweetness.
Veal Stock (1 tbsp, diluted in 150g water): A rich stock enhances the umami flavors and deepens the taste of the sauce.
Salt & Ground Pepper: These classic seasonings help balance the flavors, making the sauce more robust.
Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley (4 sprigs, chopped): Adds a touch of freshness and a pop of color, enhancing both taste and presentation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Meat Sauce
Creating a rich and delicious meat sauce takes a few simple steps, but patience and attention to detail will yield a flavorful result. Follow this easy process to achieve the best taste:
1. Prepping the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, ensure all vegetables are finely chopped. Dicing the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic will allow them to cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the sauce.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently and let them cook until they become soft and slightly golden. This process helps release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the sauce.
3. Browning the Meat
Once the vegetables are tender, add the minced beef (or the combination of beef and pork). Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until it browns evenly. This step is crucial as it locks in the meaty flavors and prevents a greasy texture.
4. Adding Herbs and Seasonings
Stir in the dried Provencal herbs and a pinch of hot chili powder. Season with salt and ground pepper to taste. Cooking the spices with the meat helps infuse their flavors deeply into the dish.
5. Simmering with Tomatoes and Stock
Pour in the peeled tomatoes along with their juice. Use a spoon to break the tomatoes into smaller chunks. Add the diluted veal stock and stir well to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the sauce for an added burst of freshness. This meat sauce pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even as a base for homemade lasagna.
Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Meat Sauce
This hearty meat sauce is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients:
Calories: 1951 kJ / 467 kcal per serving
Proteins: 48g (Great for muscle-building and overall health)
Carbohydrates: 10g (A balanced source of energy)
Lipids: 25g (Healthy fats for sustained energy and flavor)
Tips for the Best Homemade Meat Sauce
Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the vegetables and herbs, the better the flavor.
Slow Simmering is Key: A long, slow simmer enhances the depth of flavors, creating a rich and satisfying sauce.
Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Quick and Simple Recipe
Homemade Hearty Meat Sauce Recipe
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
100g carrot, finely diced
100g onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
50g celery sticks, chopped
15g olive oil
700g minced beef (or half pork, half beef)
2 tsp dried Provencal herbs
1 pinch hot chili powder
400g peeled tomatoes in juice
1 tbsp veal stock (diluted in 150g water)
Salt and ground pepper to taste
4 sprigs fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add diced carrot, onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until softened.
Add minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Stir in dried herbs, chili powder, salt, and ground pepper.
Pour in peeled tomatoes and veal stock. Stir well.
Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over pasta or rice.
