Italian sugo, also known as tomato sauce or gravy, is a staple in Italian cuisine. This rich and flavorful sauce is the base for many classic Italian dishes such as pasta, lasagna, and chicken parmesan. While there are countless variations of sugo, the key ingredients remain the same - tomatoes, herbs, and aromatics. In this article, we will explore the traditional Italian sugo recipe and provide tips for making the perfect batch of this versatile sauce.
This classic recipe is a must-try for any Italian food enthusiast. Made with a combination of ground beef and pork, these meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices for an authentic flavor. Serve them with your favorite pasta and Italian tomato sauce for a delicious and comforting meal.
2of 20
Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
If you want to make a big impression with your meatballs, this recipe is for you. These great big Italian meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal, giving them a rich and hearty flavor. They are then simmered in a savory tomato sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
3of 20
Sugo, Italian Tomato sauce
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Whole Peeled Tomatoes, Tomato
No meatball dish is complete without a delicious Italian tomato sauce, and this recipe will not disappoint. Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this sauce is simmered to perfection and pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta or meatballs.
This soup is a staple at Italian weddings, and for good reason. It's a hearty and comforting dish made with meatballs, pasta, vegetables, and spices. The meatballs in this soup are the star of the dish, adding a burst of flavor and texture to every bite.
5of 20
Keto Stuffed Peppers – Italian Style
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Onion
If you're looking for a healthier twist on traditional Italian meatballs, this recipe is for you. These keto stuffed peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, pork, and Italian herbs, making them a delicious and low-carb option for any meal.
This traditional Italian dish features thinly sliced beef rolled up with a flavorful filling of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. These braciole are then simmered in a savory tomato sauce and served with your favorite pasta or vegetables.
7of 20
Italian Almond Paste Cookies
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt
For those with a sweet tooth, these Italian almond paste cookies are a must-try. Made with ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, these cookies are soft and chewy with a delicious almond flavor. They make the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
8of 20
Homemade Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Grated Romano Cheese, Garlic, Fresh
For a simple and delicious meatball recipe, look no further than these homemade Italian meatballs. Made with a combination of ground beef and pork, these meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices and can be served with your favorite pasta or as a standalone dish.
This refreshing and flavorful pasta salad is a great addition to any summer meal. Made with cooked pasta, salami, cheese, olives, and Italian dressing, it's a simple and delicious side dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
10of 20
Creamy Italian Ravioli
Main Ingredients: Ravioli, Fresh Baby Spinach, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Heavy
If you're a fan of ravioli, this recipe is a must-try. These creamy Italian ravioli are filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and Italian herbs and are served with a creamy tomato sauce for a decadent and delicious meal.
This Italian chicken casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Made with chicken breast, pasta, tomatoes, and Italian herbs, it's a simple and delicious way to incorporate Italian flavors into your meal.
This Italian lentil soup is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. Made with lentils, vegetables, and Italian herbs, it's a flavorful and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold day.
13of 20
Easy Stromboli (Italian Stromboli)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Pizza Dough, Sliced Pepperoni, Capicola, Sliced
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, this Italian stromboli recipe is perfect for you. Made with pizza dough, deli meats, and cheese, it's a delicious and portable option for lunch or dinner.
This Italian crescent casserole is a great way to use up your leftover meatballs. Made with crescent roll dough, meatballs, pasta sauce, and cheese, it's a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.
For those following a keto diet, these Italian meatballs are a great option. Made with a combination of ground beef and pork, these meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices and are low-carb and keto-friendly.
If you're in need of a delicious appetizer, look no further than these Italian sausage-stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a mixture of sweet Italian sausage, cream cheese, and Italian herbs, they are the perfect bite-sized snack for any gathering.
17of 20
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 a delicious Italian meal, these quick and easy Italian meatballs are the perfect solution. Made with ground beef, pork, and Italian herbs, they can be on the table in under 30 minutes.
18of 20
Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Extra Virgin Olive
This sheet pan Italian chicken dinner is a great option for a flavorful and easy meal. Made with chicken, potatoes, vegetables, and Italian dressing, it's a one-pan meal that is bursting with delicious Italian flavors.
19of 20
Hearty Italian Beef and Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients: Medium Onion, Garlic Cloves, Large Carrots, Celery
This hearty Italian beef and vegetable soup is a great option for a filling and nutritious meal. Made with beef, vegetables, and Italian herbs, it's a comforting and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.
20of 20
Italian Pork Kabobs with Summer Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin Roast, Red Wine Vinegar, Kosher Salt, Red
If you're looking for a delicious and healthy grilling recipe, these Italian pork kabobs are a great option. Made with pork tenderloin, vegetables, and Italian dressing, they are a flavorful and easy option for any summer barbecue.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
When it comes to making a delicious sugo, using high-quality ingredients is key. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star of the show, so be sure to choose ones that are plump and juicy. San Marzano tomatoes are a popular choice in Italian cuisine for their sweet and tangy flavor, but any variety of plum tomatoes will work well. It is also important to use fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme for maximum flavor. Avoid using dried herbs as they can become bitter when cooked for a long time. Lastly, aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots add depth and complexity to the sauce. Be sure to chop them finely and cook them until they are soft and translucent before adding the tomatoes.
Tips for Making the Perfect Sugo
Now that we know the importance of quality ingredients, here are some tips to take your sugo to the next level:
Slow and steady wins the race: Sugo is a slow-cooked sauce, so be patient and let it simmer on low heat for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop.
Don't skimp on the olive oil: The Italian saying goes, "olio d'oliva fa buon sugo" which translates to "olive oil makes good sauce". Use a generous amount of olive oil to sauté your aromatics for a richer and silkier sauce.
Season to taste: Salt and black pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors in your sugo. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
With these tips in mind, you are now ready to make your own delicious Italian sugo. Buon Appetito!