Hearty Garlic and Herb Meat Sauce
There are few things as comforting and satisfying as a rich, homemade meat sauce simmering on the stove. This recipe takes a simple garlic and herb tomato sauce and transforms it into a robust and savory meal with the addition of browned ground beef. It's the perfect weeknight staple that tastes like it's been slow-cooking all day, yet comes together with surprising ease. Each bite is a perfect harmony of savory meat, pungent garlic, and bright herbs, creating a timeless classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a meal that is guaranteed to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the hot pot.
- Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned. Season generously with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Carefully drain off the excess fat from the pot, leaving the beef behind.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil if the pot seems dry.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Stir it constantly into the beef.
- Pour in the cans of tomatoes, and add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. A longer simmer (1 hour or more) will make it even richer.
- Stir in the fresh herbs before serving.