Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to Italy with Buddy Valastro's mouthwatering Pasta Gravy with Meatballs and Sausage! This hearty dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Imagine succulent meatballs and savory sausage simmering in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, all served over your favorite pasta. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a comforting dinner, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Trust us, once you try this, you'll never look at spaghetti the same way again!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta of choice
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully brown the meatballs and sausage in batches, turning them to ensure even browning on all sides. This process should take about 8-10 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same pot, add crushed tomatoes, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits from the meat. This will add depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Return the browned meatballs and sausage to the pot, stirring gently to coat with the tomato sauce.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the sauce for approximately
- 5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- About 20 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and transfer to a serving platter. Ladle the hot sauce, meatballs, and sausage over the pasta.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Italian gravy.
Tips
- Keep It Tender: When mixing the meat for the meatballs, use your hands and avoid overworking the mixture. This will help keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Brown with Care: Make sure to brown the meatballs and sausage in batches. This not only prevents overcrowding but also ensures a nice, even sear that enhances the flavor.
- Scrape the Pot: After browning the meat, don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pot when adding the crushed tomatoes. Those browned bits are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce.
- Simmer Slowly: For the best flavor, allow the sauce to simmer for at least
- 5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, making your gravy irresistible.
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce. This ensures the perfect texture that holds up against the rich gravy.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley when serving. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and add a burst of freshness.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! The flavors deepen and improve the next day, making it an ideal candidate for leftovers or a make-ahead meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
