Olive Garden Meat Sauce
This Olive Garden-inspired meat sauce is rich, hearty, and packed with authentic Italian flavors. Made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of herbs, this homemade version is easy to prepare and perfect for pasta dishes, lasagna, or even as a dipping sauce for garlic bread. Simmered to perfection, this sauce brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet or Saucepan – For cooking the sauce
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring
- 1 Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping onions and garlic
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons Set – For accurate ingredient portions
- 1 Can Opener – For opening tomato cans
- 1 Ladle (for serving)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter version
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
Optional Additions
- ½ cup red wine or beef broth for depth of flavor
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Tomato Ingredients
- Stir in tomato paste and mix well.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine.
- If using, add red wine or beef broth for a richer taste.
Step 4: Season & Simmer
- Sprinkle in oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Taste & Serve
- Adjust seasoning if needed. If using, stir in Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- For a Thicker Sauce: Let it simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
- For a Smoother Texture: Use an immersion blender to slightly puree the sauce.
- For a Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or mushrooms.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals.