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Italian Sunday Sauce

Italian Sunday Sauce: A Cozy Tradition for Your Family Table

Experience the heartwarming flavors of Italian Sunday Sauce, a cozy family tradition perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Opt for high-quality extra virgin for best results.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chop for better texture.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Mince closely for even distribution.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Use high-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can be substituted with fresh for a brighter flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Consider fresh basil for a punchier taste at the end.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit if you prefer a mild sauce.
  • 1 pinch Sugar Use sparingly; adjust according to tomato quality.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste throughout cooking.
  • 1 pound Meat (Italian Sausage/Chicken Thighs/Beef) Substitute with plant-based alternatives for vegetarian version.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chop finely for garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Sunday Sauce
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
  2. Add 1 finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high, add meat and sear for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides, then remove the meat and set aside.
  5. Stir in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and red pepper flakes if desired. Add a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Return the browned meat to the pot, lower heat, cover, and cook for 1.5 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
  7. Adjust seasonings if necessary, remove the bay leaf, and toss in freshly chopped parsley before serving.
  8. Serve the sauce over freshly cooked pasta or creamy polenta or as a dip for crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Simmer longer for maximum richness. Reserve pasta water before draining to help the sauce adhere.

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