Grandma’s Secret Sauce

 

Grandma’s Secret Sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: About 4 cups

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil or butter

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup beef broth (or red wine for richness)

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp balsamic vinegar (for depth)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, but amazing)

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

½ cup heavy cream or grated Parmesan (for a creamy, rich finish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

2. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Build the Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to develop depth.

4. Simmer: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and all the spices. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finish Rich: Stir in heavy cream or Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes for extra richness.

6. Serve: Use it over pasta, zucchini noodles, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks!

It’s bold, velvety, and tastes like an old family recipe—but it’s done in 30 minutes! What are you planning to use it for?