Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large yellow onion, diced

2 lbs. ground beef

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 green bell pepper, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3/4 cup dry red wine

6 oz. tomato paste

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons hot sauce

2 tablespoons sugar

28 oz. crushed tomatoes

14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained

8 oz. tomato sauce

2 bay leaves

2 teaspoons dried parsley

2 teaspoons dried basil

2 teaspoons mustard powder

2 teaspoons salt

1.5 teaspoons oregano

2 pinches red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 8 minutes until they soften, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and add the beef to the pot. Cook and crumble for 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 3: Drain excess grease from the pot. Pour in the red wine and use a silicone spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 5-6 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates and the alcohol smell dissipates.

Step 4: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, sugar, and the dried seasonings. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.

Step 5: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and bay leaves. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Partially cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to lift any meat from the bottom.

Step 6: Remove bay leaves and serve the meat sauce hot over your favorite pasta. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread topped with cheese.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use a good quality dry red wine or substitute with beef broth if preferred.

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for a different taste.

Adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.

Add finely chopped mushrooms or carrots to increase the vegetable content and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this meat sauce without wine?

Yes, you can omit the wine and substitute with beef broth or additional tomato sauce. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How thick should the sauce be when done?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat a spoon and have a rich texture, but still saucy enough to toss with pasta comfortably. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce.