nonna’s sunday gravy recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
nonna's sunday gravy recipe
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The Best nonna’s sunday gravy recipe

Nonna’s Sunday Gravy Recipe is a staple in our household. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that never fails to impress.

I remember my grandmother making it for family gatherings, and now I make it for my kids and husband. The smell of the onions and garlic simmering in olive oil is unmistakable, and it always brings back memories of Sunday lunches at Nonna’s house.

The recipe itself is quite simple, but the technique of cooking the gravy over low heat for hours is what makes it truly special. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering.

The best part is that it’s easy to make ahead and freezes beautifully, so you can prepare it in advance and thaw it when you’re ready to serve. My kids love helping me stir the gravy and adding the final touches before serving.

It’s a true family tradition that I’m so glad to carry on.

Nonna's Sunday Gravy

Nonna’s Sunday Gravy

4.9 from 960 votes

A rich and hearty meat sauce slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and herbs, perfect for a traditional Italian Sunday dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time3 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 30 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Meat

1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 lb pork shoulder

Aromatics

2 large yellow onions
6 cloves garlic
2 large carrots
2 stalks celery
1 large onion

Canned Goods

2 28-oz cans crushed tomatoes
1 6-oz can tomato paste
1 cup red wine

Herbs and Spices

1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 bay leaves

Additional

2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup beef broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add ground beef, Italian sausage, and pork shoulder.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 10-12 minutes.
4Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
5You will see the meat releasing moisture, and then it will begin to brown.
6Once browned, drain excess fat.
7While the meat is cooking, finely chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
Set aside.
8Once the meat is browned and drained, add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot.
9Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
10You will see the vegetables releasing moisture and beginning to become translucent.
11Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves.
12Stir well to combine.
13Pour in the beef broth and stir again.
14Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the gravy simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
15The gravy should thicken and the flavors should meld together.
16If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a little water.
17If it becomes too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
18After 2 hours, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
19If you prefer a smoother gravy, use an immersion blender to blend it until smooth.
20If you prefer a chunkier gravy, leave it as is.
21If you prefer a chunkier gravy, leave it as is.
22Let the gravy cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
23Serve the gravy over your favorite pasta, such as rigatoni or pappardelle.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon
Sharp knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier gravy, add more red pepper flakes. For a richer gravy, add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

Watch Video Of How Nonna’s Sunday Gravy Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering. The key is to make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.

You can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for quick reheating. Serve with pasta, meatballs, or sausages for a hearty meal that everyone will love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Nonna’s Sunday Gravy

Q1: What is Nonna’s Sunday Gravy Recipe?

Nonna’s Sunday Gravy Recipe is an Italian-American dish made with ground meat, tomatoes, and herbs simmered in olive oil.

Q2: Can I use ground beef or pork instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can use ground beef or pork instead of ground turkey. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q3: How long does the gravy need to simmer?

The gravy needs to simmer for at least 2 hours, but the longer you cook it, the better it will taste.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Q5: What if I don’t have fresh herbs like parsley or basil?

You can use dried herbs like oregano or thyme instead of fresh herbs. Just adjust the amount according to your taste.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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