A hearty homemade spaghetti marinara made with ground beef, Italian sausage, tomatoes, and classic seasonings. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
2poundslean ground beef
1poundground italian sausage
1mediumonion, chopped (I used dried onion)
4teaspoonminced garlic
1(28oz.) )cancrushed tomatoes
1(15oz.) can tomato sauce
1(6oz.) cantomato paste
2Tablespoonsugar
1-1/2teaspoonsdried basil
1teaspoonfennel seeds
1bay leaf
1teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonpepper
Instructions
Instructions
In a large pot or deep saucepan, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until softened and fragrant.Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, basil, fennel seeds, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.Serve warm over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
Notes
This sauce thickens as it simmers and continues to develop flavor over time.It can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.Freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.Pairs well with spaghetti, penne, or layered dishes like baked pasta.