Master Meat Sauce is a versatile and flavorful base that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from pasta to casseroles. This hearty sauce combines the savory goodness of lean ground meat with the rich flavors of tomatoes and seasonings. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or stocking your freezer with meal-ready portions, this recipe for Master Meat Sauce is a must-have in your culinary arsenal.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 pounds lean ground meat
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste plus 6 oz. can of water or 1 can tomato soup
- 2 cans (15 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
INSTRUCTIONS
- Brown the Meat and Drain Fat:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the 4 pounds of lean ground meat over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Carefully drain any excess fat or grease from the meat. This step helps reduce the overall fat content of the sauce.
- Add Other Ingredients and Simmer:
- After draining the meat, add the minced medium onion to the pan.
- Stir in 1 can (6 oz.) of tomato paste and, if using tomato paste, add 6 oz. of water to the pan to create a tomato paste mixture. Alternatively, you can use 1 can of tomato soup as a substitute.
- Pour in 2 cans (15 oz. each) of tomato sauce to the mixture.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Freeze Unused Portions:
- If you have leftover sauce or want to prepare this sauce in advance for future meals, you can easily store it for later use.
- Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature.
- Immediately place unused sauce in 1-cup portions into freezer bags, ensuring that you label each bag with the date. This makes it convenient to grab and use the sauce for quick meals in the future.
Master Meat Sauce is a fantastic foundation for various dishes, adding depth and richness to your culinary creations. With its simple preparation and the option to freeze unused portions, it’s a valuable addition to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re making a classic spaghetti bolognese, a hearty lasagna, or a flavorful meat sauce for a Mexican dish, this recipe provides you with the essential building block for countless delicious meals. So, prepare a batch of Master Meat Sauce and elevate your cooking game with its delightful flavors and versatility.
