15 Best Italian Gravy Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
For many people, a delicious plate of pasta wouldn't be complete without a rich and flavorful Italian gravy. This traditional tomato-based sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, and there are countless variations and recipes that claim to be the best. However, after years of experimenting and perfecting my own recipe, I can confidently say that this is truly the best Italian gravy you will ever taste. So put on your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering dish.
If you're looking for a hearty and delicious meal to make on a lazy Sunday, then look no further than Italian Sunday Gravy. This classic dish is a staple in many Italian households and for good reason – it's packed with flavor and always hits the spot. Made with a rich tomato-based sauce and a variety of meats and spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
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Traditional Italian Meatballs with Sunday Gravy
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Whole Peeled
No Italian Sunday Gravy is complete without a big batch of traditional Italian meatballs. These meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, along with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a variety of herbs and spices. They're then simmered in the Sunday Gravy to soak up all of that delicious flavor. Serve them over a bed of pasta for the ultimate comfort meal.
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Italian Meatballs with Sunday Gravy
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Whole Peeled
If you're short on time, you can still enjoy the flavors of Italian Sunday Gravy with this quick and easy version. Instead of simmering the meatballs in the sauce, they're cooked separately and then added to the gravy at the end. This allows you to have all the deliciousness of traditional Italian meatballs and Sunday Gravy in a fraction of the time.
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Sunday Gravy
Main Ingredients: Top Round Steak, Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Sunday Gravy, also known as "Sunday Sauce," is a slow-simmered tomato-based sauce that is typically made on Sundays in Italian households. It's a labor of love, with each family having their own unique recipe and twist on the dish. The sauce is typically made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of meats such as sausage, meatballs, and pork ribs.
Italian meatballs are a staple in many Italian-American households and can be served in a variety of ways – over pasta, as a sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer. They're made with a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal, as well as breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. They can be fried, baked, or even cooked in the Sunday Gravy for ultimate flavor infusion.
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Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
Take your Italian meatballs to the next level with this recipe for Great Big Italian Meatballs. These large meatballs are made with the traditional blend of meats and seasonings but are formed into larger balls for a heartier meal. They're perfect for serving over pasta or in a hearty meatball sub.
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Despite its name, it's not actually served at Italian weddings, but it's a popular dish in Italian-American households. The soup is made with a flavorful broth, mini meatballs, vegetables, and pasta. It's a delicious and filling meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
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Keto Stuffed Peppers – Italian Style
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Onion
If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you don't have to miss out on the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine. These Keto Stuffed Peppers are filled with a mixture of Italian sausage, cauliflower rice, and marinara sauce, making them a flavorful and satisfying meal. Plus, they're easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Braciole, also known as "braciola," is a classic Italian dish that consists of thin slices of meat rolled up with a filling and then cooked in a tomato-based sauce. While there are many variations of braciole, the most traditional version is made with thinly sliced beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, and parsley. It's a perfect addition to any Italian Sunday Gravy spread.
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Italian Almond Paste Cookies
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt
No Italian Sunday Gravy meal is complete without a sweet treat to finish it off. These Italian Almond Paste Cookies are a traditional Italian dessert made with almond paste, sugar, and egg whites. They're dense and chewy with a delicious almond flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or espresso.
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Anthony Bourdain's Italian Sunday Gravy with Sausage
Main Ingredients: Spicy Italian Sausage, Olive Oil, Garlic, Yellow
Even world-renowned chef and food traveler Anthony Bourdain had his own take on Italian Sunday Gravy. His version includes a variety of meats, including Italian sausage, pork ribs, and beef braciole, as well as red wine for a rich and robust flavor. It's a must-try for any fan of Bourdain or Italian cuisine.
If you're a fan of the hit TV show "The Sopranos," then you've probably heard of their infamous Sunday Gravy. This version of the classic dish is packed with a variety of meats, including sausage, pork ribs, and meatballs, along with a secret ingredient – a pig's foot. The result is a rich and flavorful gravy that is sure to satisfy.
Another take on the Soprano family's Sunday Gravy, this version includes a few different ingredients, such as prosciutto and pancetta, to give it a unique flavor. It's a slightly more elevated version of the classic dish, making it perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
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Sunday Gravy (Sinatra's FAV in Hoboken,baby!)
Main Ingredients: Crushed Tomatoes, Tomato Puree, Tomato Paste, Water
Frank Sinatra was known for his love of Italian food, and his favorite Sunday Gravy recipe was said to be from a restaurant in Hoboken, New Jersey, where he grew up. This version is packed with a variety of meats, including pork ribs, sausage, and meatballs, and is slow-simmered for hours to develop a rich and flavorful sauce.
If you're looking for an easy and delicious weeknight meal, look no further than this Italian Crescent Casserole. It's made with ground beef, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crescent roll crust. It's a fun twist on classic Italian flavors that the whole family will love.
Another great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, these Keto Italian Meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef and ground pork, along with almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. They're delicious on their own or served with zucchini noodles for a low-carb pasta night.
These Italian Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms are a perfect appetizer for any Italian-inspired meal. The filling is made with Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, and herbs, and then stuffed into mushroom caps and baked until golden and delicious. They're a great addition to any party or potluck.
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Quick and Easy Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: 85 Lean Ground Beef, Garlic, Large Eggs, Dried
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the flavors of Italian meatballs, then this quick and easy recipe is for you. It uses pre-made frozen meatballs and a jar of marinara sauce for a simple and delicious dish that can be on the table in under 30 minutes. Serve them over pasta or as a meatball sub for a satisfying meal.
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Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Extra Virgin Olive
This Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner is a one-pan meal that is packed with flavor and perfect for a busy weeknight. Chicken breasts are seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and a balsamic glaze. Serve them with roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.
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Hearty Italian Beef and Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients: Medium Onion, Garlic Cloves, Large Carrots, Celery
When the weather gets colder, there's nothing better than a warm and comforting bowl of soup. This Hearty Italian Beef and Vegetable Soup is packed with tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and Italian seasonings for a flavorful and filling meal. Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for the ultimate cozy dinner.
The Secret to a Perfect Italian Gravy
Creating the perfect Italian gravy is all about using the right ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors develop. The key to a rich and flavorful gravy is using high-quality San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their intense sweetness and low acidity. These tomatoes are grown in the volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, giving them a unique and delicious taste. Make sure to use whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes and crush them by hand for the best texture.
Building Layers of Flavor
To truly elevate your Italian gravy, you need to build layers of flavor. This means starting with a good base of aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs. Sauté them in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant before adding in the crushed tomatoes. This step is crucial in developing a deep and complex flavor profile.
Don't Skimp on the Cooking Time
One of the biggest mistakes people make when making Italian gravy is not giving it enough time to cook. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more flavorful it will become. I recommend letting it cook for at least 2-3 hours on low heat, stirring occasionally. This allows all the ingredients to fully incorporate and develop a rich and hearty taste.
The Final Touch
Once your Italian gravy is done cooking, it's time to add the final touch. I like to add a splash of red wine and a sprinkle of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and add a subtle sweetness. This step may seem small, but it makes a big difference in the overall taste of the gravy.
Now that you have the best Italian gravy recipe, it's time to put it to the test. Serve it over your favorite pasta, top it with some fresh grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!