Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce With Sausage and Meatballs Recipe

Welcome to my mom’s Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs recipe! This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family and is a staple at every family gathering. Growing up, there was nothing better than coming home to the aroma of this sauce simmering on the stove. It brings back memories of Sunday dinners with my family, and I’m excited to share it with you.

This recipe is a unique blend of Irish and Italian flavors, as my mother-in-law is Italian and my mom is Irish-American. The result is a delicious homemade spaghetti sauce that is both sweet and spicy, with a perfect balance of herbs and spices. It’s the ultimate comfort food and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to impress your family, friends, or just want a delicious meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. So put on your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mom's Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce With Sausage and Meatballs
Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce With Sausage and Meatballs

Are you tired of the same old spaghetti recipe? Then, you need to try Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs Recipe. This recipe is a perfect blend of Italian and Irish flavors, bringing you the best of both worlds.

This spaghetti sauce is loaded with sweet and spicy Italian sausage, juicy meatballs, and a hearty tomato sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The sauce is made with a combination of tomato paste, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato puree, giving it a rich and robust flavor.

The meatballs are made with a mixture of lean ground beef and mild Italian sausage, seasoned with garlic powder, dried parsley, dried basil, and dried oregano. Each bite of these meatballs is juicy and bursting with flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over your favorite pasta noodles or use it as a topping for baked spaghetti. You can even use it as a base for homemade spaghetti bolognese.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, and it is sure to become a family favorite. It is also an ideal dish for feeding large crowds, making it a great option for potlucks and parties.

Overall, Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs Recipe is a must-try recipe. It is delicious, easy to make, and versatile. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and see for yourself why this recipe is so loved by everyone who tries it!

Ingredient List

 This spaghetti sauce is a family tradition passed down for generations.
This spaghetti sauce is a family tradition passed down for generations.

Ingredients:
For the meatballs:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork sausage
  • 1/2 cup dried breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the sauce:

  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.75 ounce) tomato paste
  • 2 cans (28 ounce) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (28 ounce) tomato puree
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed

For serving:

  • 1 pound spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

This ingredient list is for my Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs Recipe. The recipe calls for both spaghetti meatballs and sausage meatballs, which are made from a combination of ground beef, pork sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. The sauce is made using onion, garlic, tomato paste, diced and crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, dried parsley, basil, and oregano, sugar, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. The mild Italian sausage adds a delicious flavor and texture to the sauce. Once the sauce and meatballs are cooked, they are served over cooked spaghetti and garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

The Recipe How-To

 The aroma of the sausage and meatballs simmering in the sauce will make your mouth water.
The aroma of the sausage and meatballs simmering in the sauce will make your mouth water.

Now, let’s get cooking with my mom’s Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs recipe. This recipe has been passed down from my mother-in-law, and it’s a family favorite. It’s perfect for a Sunday dinner with the family or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground lean beef
  • 1 pound mild Italian sausage
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes (10.75 ounces each)
  • 2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 ounces each)
  • 2 cans tomato puree (28 ounces each)
  • 1 can tomato paste (6 ounces)
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  5. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. Add the sugar and salt to taste.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the better it will taste.
  8. Serve over your favorite homemade spaghetti or your favorite pasta.

Substitutions and Variations

  • For a spicier sauce, use sweet or spicy Italian sausage.
  • Substitute ground pork sausage for the Italian sausage, or use a combination of both.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce before serving.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.

Serving and Pairing

This sauce is perfect for serving over your favorite homemade spaghetti or any kind of pasta of your choice. Top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve with some crusty bread and a green salad on the side.

Make-Ahead, Storing, and Reheating

Substitutions and Variations

 The secret to the perfect sauce? Letting it simmer for hours to develop the flavors.
The secret to the perfect sauce? Letting it simmer for hours to develop the flavors.

Now, let’s talk about some substitutions and variations you can make to this Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs recipe to make it your own.

Firstly, if you prefer a spicier sauce, you can swap out the mild Italian sausage for sweet or spicy Italian sausage. You can also add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it an extra kick.

If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can replace it with ground pork or turkey. You can also use all sausage meat instead of adding ground beef. Alternatively, you can make the meatballs with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

For a vegetarian version of this recipe, you can skip the meat altogether and add sautéed mushrooms or eggplants to the sauce. You can also add some lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.

If you want to switch up the pasta, you can use any type of noodles you like. From spaghetti to linguine to fettuccine, the choice is yours. You can also try this sauce with baked spaghetti for a fun twist.

Finally, if you want to add some tanginess to the sauce, you can add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or a splash of red wine. This will give the sauce a depth of flavor and balance out the sweetness from the tomatoes.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you. Don’t be afraid to try out different substitutions and variations to make this recipe your own.

Serving and Pairing

 Mom's spaghetti sauce is the perfect comfort food on a chilly evening.
Mom’s spaghetti sauce is the perfect comfort food on a chilly evening.

Mom’s Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for serving to a crowd. This classic recipe is the ultimate comfort food and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.

To serve, simply spoon the sauce over a steaming plate of spaghetti noodles or try it with some baked spaghetti for a delicious twist. Top it off with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for added flavor and texture.

When it comes to pairing, this spaghetti sauce pairs well with a bold, full-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water or Italian soda.

In terms of sides, garlic bread or a side salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing makes for a great accompaniment to this dish. The bread can be used to soak up any remaining sauce, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spaghetti sauce.

Overall, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a family dinner or a potluck with friends. It’s comforting, delicious, and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 The combination of sausage and meatballs gives this sauce a unique and delicious flavor.
The combination of sausage and meatballs gives this sauce a unique and delicious flavor.

This Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. You can make it ahead of time and store it for later use. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To make ahead, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Label the container with the date and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until hot.

Storing this sauce is easy, but reheating it can be a bit tricky. I recommend reheating it on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container and stir the sauce every 30 seconds to prevent it from overheating.

When reheating, you may need to add a bit of water or broth to thin out the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer. You can also adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.

Overall, this is an excellent make-ahead recipe that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch. So, make a big batch of this delicious sauce today and store it for later use. You won’t regret it!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Serve over spaghetti or any other type of pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Serve over spaghetti or any other type of pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Let me give you some tips to make sure you achieve the perfect result for Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs Recipe. Trust me, these tips will come in handy and make your dish stand out from the rest.

1. Seasoning is key

Seasoning is an essential element of any dish, and this recipe is no exception. Use a balanced combination of salt, pepper, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder to create a flavor that is not too overpowering. It’s important to remember to taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.

2. Use lean ground beef

Using lean ground beef is important as it is less greasy and healthier. The fat from the sausage will provide enough richness to the sauce, and the ground beef will act as a perfect complement to it.

3. Brown your meatballs

For an added depth of flavor, make sure to brown your meatballs before adding them to the sauce. This caramelization process will add a rich and savory taste to your sauce.

4. Don’t be afraid to add sugar

Tomatoes can be acidic, and adding a little bit of sugar (one tablespoon) can balance out the acidity and enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Just be careful not to overdo it, or your sauce may end up too sweet.

5. Use a combination of tomato products

Using a combination of tomato paste, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato puree will give your sauce a complex and robust flavor. Make sure to add them in stages to ensure each flavor has time to develop.

6. Let the sauce simmer

To achieve the perfect consistency, let your sauce simmer for at least an hour. This will allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.

7. Use quality ingredients

Using quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish. Invest in good quality sausage, ground beef, and canned tomatoes.

By following these tips, you can guarantee that Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce with Sausage and Meatballs Recipe will be a hit. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding your own twist or variations. Happy cooking!

Bottom Line

:

In conclusion, my mom’s Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs recipe is a true family favorite that has stood the test of time. It is a perfect blend of Italian and Irish flavors, and always hits the spot. With its rich and hearty taste, it is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a potluck party.

This recipe is easy to make, and with the right ingredients and techniques, you can make a mouth-watering spaghetti sauce that will impress your guests and bring back memories of home-cooked meals. With its savory flavors and tender meatballs, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

So why not give my mom’s recipe a try and taste the deliciousness for yourself? You won’t regret it. And with the tips and suggestions I’ve provided, you can make this recipe your own, adapting it to your own preferences and taste.

Remember, cooking is an art, and with the right tools and ingredients, anyone can be a master chef. So grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and get ready to make the best Irish-American spaghetti sauce with sausage and meatballs you’ve ever tasted. Happy cooking!

Mom’s Irish-American Spaghetti Sauce With Sausage and Meatballs Recipe

I just got Mom to e-mail me directions for how to make "meat sauce" like she did when we were kids. This was a staple in our house, always made in an enormous pot and simmering most of the day. It seemed like forever before we were allowed to taste test it! The measurements are mine, as Mom only gave vague instructions. There is something really special about this recipe … everyone asks me what the secret ingredient is, but I think its the process of cooking the sausages in the sauce that makes it sooooo wonderful. This freezes well, so make extra. Can be defrosted slowly in the microwave.

  • 6 -8 links mild Italian sausage (for those in Australia, I have found Coles Tuscan sausages are the best for this recipe)
  • 1 large onion, chopped finely
  • 4 small garlic cloves, crushed
  • 3 (400 g) cans tomato puree
  • 1 (800 g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (400 g) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 400 g lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • dried oregano, to taste
  • dried basil, to taste
  • dried parsley, to taste
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  1. Brown all but 3 of the sausages in olive oil in a big pot on the stove.
  2. Turn down heat and add onion and garlic. Saute till just translucent.
  3. Add tomato puree, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste and sugar. Season with oregano, basil, parsley, and salt and pepper. Let simmer.
  4. Meanwhile, into a large bowl, squeeze the remaining 3 sausages out of their casings.
  5. Add mince, breadcrumbs, herbs and salt and pepper. Mix well with your hands (rubber gloves work great!). Use the palms of your hands to firmly form golf ball-sized meatballs (I got 12 out of this mixture).
  6. When the sauce is piping hot, and the sausages are cooked through (about 40 minutes), throw meatballs into the sauce and let cook for another 30-40 minutes.
  7. If you want to let the sauce and sausages simmer longer, feel free. But don’t throw in the meatballs till 40 minutes before the end.
  8. Serve over spaghetti or use to make lasagna.
Main Course
Irish-American
< 4 Hours, European, Healthy, Low Cholesterol, Meat, Pork, Sauces, Vegetable

[custom-related-posts title=”Recommended Recipes Just For You” none_text=”None found” order_by=”date” order=”ASC”]