This Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a comforting hug in a pot. Simmered low and slow for hours, it blends crushed tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and rich meats like sausage, meatballs, or short ribs to create a deeply flavorful red sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. The smell alone brings people to the table. Whether you call it gravy or sauce, it’s the kind of meal that turns Sunday dinner into a ritual.
Why You’ll Love This Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce
Deep, rich flavor from slow simmering.
Feeds a crowd and makes incredible leftovers.
Perfect for freezing or prepping ahead.
Customizable with your choice of meats.
Turns simple pasta into a restaurant-worthy dish.
Ingredients for Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce
From pantry to plate, these ingredients make the magic happen:
Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and flavor, forming the base of your sauce.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Carrot: Diced carrot contributes natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Celery: This aromatic adds a subtle earthiness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Ground beef: A hearty choice that provides a robust flavor and texture.
Ground pork: Adds richness and a touch of sweetness, complementing the beef perfectly.
Crushed tomatoes: The star of the show, these provide the sauce’s base and vibrant color.
Tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and adds a smooth consistency.
Tomato paste: A concentrated form of tomato that thickens the sauce and intensifies the flavor.
Dried oregano: A classic herb in Italian cuisine, it adds a warm, earthy note.
Dried basil: This herb brings a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
Sugar: Just a pinch helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the sauce.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle depth of flavor; remember to remove it before serving!
Red wine (optional): A splash of red wine can deepen the flavor, making it even more savory.
Fresh basil (for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor when serving.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery.
Sauté these aromatic veggies for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
This step builds a flavorful base for your Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce, making your kitchen smell like a cozy Italian trattoria.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
Next, add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet.
Cook the mixture until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
This should take about eight to ten minutes.
Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep your sauce rich but not greasy.
This step ensures a hearty texture that will make your sauce truly satisfying.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Now, transfer the browned meat mixture to your slow cooker.
Add in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, followed by the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
If you’re feeling adventurous, pour in the red wine for an extra depth of flavor.
Stir everything together until well combined, setting the stage for a delicious sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Sauce
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for six to eight hours or high for three to four hours.
As it cooks, stir occasionally to ensure even flavor distribution.
The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become, creating a sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness.
This is the perfect time to relax and let the magic happen in your kitchen.
Step 5: Final Touches
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
This is your chance to make it just right!
Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, and if you like, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Your Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce is now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds essential flavor.
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste.
For a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last hour.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Equipment Needed
Slow cooker: Essential for this recipe; a Dutch oven can work too if you prefer stovetop cooking.
Large skillet: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the meats.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the meat.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping your veggies with ease.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that will warm you up.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meats with lentils or a mix of chopped mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty, meatless sauce.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
Slow-Cooked Bolognese: Add a splash of milk or cream at the end for a rich, creamy Bolognese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce with al dente spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape for a classic meal.
Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce.
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
For drinks, a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon enhances the dining experience.
FAQs about Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce
Can I use different types of meat in this sauce?
Absolutely! While ground beef and pork are traditional, you can mix it up with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just remember, the flavor may vary slightly.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground meats for lentils or a combination of chopped mushrooms and zucchini. This will still give you a hearty texture and rich flavor.
Can I freeze Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce?
Yes! This sauce freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, but you can also serve it over polenta, rice, or even use it in lasagna. Don’t forget the garlic bread!
How long does it take to cook?
Cooking time varies based on your setting. On low, it takes about 6-8 hours, while on high, it’s ready in 3-4 hours. Either way, the longer it simmers, the better the flavor!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about crafting memories.
The rich aroma that fills your home invites everyone to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
Each bite is a reminder of family traditions and the love that goes into cooking.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this sauce brings warmth and comfort.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this sauce become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
A savory and hearty slow-cooked sauce perfect for family gatherings, made with a blend of ground meats and rich tomatoes.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and red wine if using.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve over your favorite pasta and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes to taste.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the sauce.
