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"A pot of authentic Italian gravy simmering with tomatoes, herbs, and meat, served over pasta."

Authentic Italian Gravy Recipe | Traditional Sunday Pasta Sauce Idea

"This authentic Italian gravy recipe is rich, hearty, and slow-simmered with tomatoes, herbs, and meats. A traditional Sunday sauce that brings comfort and flavor to pasta, lasagna, or cozy family dinners."
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Dish, pasta sauce
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 12
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
  • 1 lb beef short ribs or chuck
  • 1 lb pork ribs or chops
  • 1 batch meatballs (optional)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup red wine (or white for brightness)
  • 2 cans (28 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Brown Meats: Heat olive oil in pot. Brown sausage, beef, and pork until caramelized. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic to pot. Cook until golden and fragrant.
  • Deglaze: Pour in wine, scraping up browned bits. Let reduce slightly.
  • Add Tomatoes & Herbs: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, Parmesan rind, oregano, and basil. Season lightly.
  • Return Meats: Place browned meats back into pot. Stir gently.
  • Simmer Low & Slow: Reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Finish & Serve: Remove bay leaves and Parmesan rind. Adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta, polenta, or bread. Garnish with fresh basil.
  • Expert Tip: Low and slow cooking builds depth. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t rush: Simmering for hours develops flavor.
  • Quality tomatoes matter: Use San Marzano or high-quality canned.
  • Variations: Add chili flakes for spice, mushrooms for vegetarian depth, or braciole for holidays.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop.
  • Pairings: Best with rigatoni, spaghetti, gnocchi, or layered into lasagna.
Keyword family dinner,, Italian gravy, meat sauce, pasta sauce, Sunday sauce