Name: Classic Homemade Meat Sauce (Ragù)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, finely chopped; 1 celery stalk, finely chopped; 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup red wine (optional); 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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This classic meat sauce is a slow-simmered blend of ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, making it the perfect base for any pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s rich, deeply flavored, and incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, layer into lasagna, or spoon it over polenta or roasted vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Ground beef (or a mix of pork and beef)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Red wine (optional)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Sugar (to balance acidity)
• Bay leaf

directions

Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and garlic, then brown the ground meat. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Add wine and seasonings. Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Servings and timing

Serves 6–8. Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 60 minutes.

Variations

• Add grated carrot or celery for a traditional soffritto.
• Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Stir in cream or butter for richness at the end.

storage/reheating

Cool completely and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat for a plant-based version.

What’s the best pasta to pair with this?

Spaghetti, rigatoni, or pappardelle all work well.

Do I need to add sugar?

A small amount helps reduce acidity, especially with canned tomatoes.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat first, then simmer on low for 6–8 hours.

Is red wine necessary?

No, but it adds depth. You can use broth as a substitute.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, it scales easily. Use a large pot to avoid crowding.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered longer or add a spoon of tomato paste.

Can I add milk like in a traditional Bolognese?

Yes, it adds richness and smoothness.

What herbs work best?

Oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf are ideal.

Can I use this in lasagna?

Absolutely. It makes an excellent base layer.

Conclusion

A dependable and flavor-packed meat sauce that’s perfect for pasta night, meal prep, or freezer-friendly batch cooking.

Classic Homemade Meat Sauce (Ragù)

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Classic Homemade Meat Sauce (Ragù) is a traditional Italian staple made by slow-simmering ground meats with tomatoes, aromatics, and herbs to create a rich and deeply flavorful sauce perfect for pasta.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main
Method: Simmered
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Add red wine (if using) and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Stir in milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added richness and to mellow acidity.
Adjust seasoning if needed and serve over your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.