Go Back
+ servings
Authentic Italian Gravy

Hearty Authentic Italian Gravy for Your Family Feast

Experience the rich flavors of Authentic Italian Gravy, perfect for family gatherings and versatile for any dietary needs.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Gravy
  • 1 cup Red Wine Adds depth of flavor; substitute with beef broth if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Provides richness and aids in sautéing.
  • 4 pounds Beef Short Ribs Core element for a hearty sauce; omit for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 large Onion Enhances sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can substitute (1 clove = 1/8 tsp).
  • to taste Salt Boosts overall flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
  • to taste Ground Black Pepper Delivers warmth; white pepper is a milder option.
  • 2 cans Whole Peeled Tomatoes Essential base for the gravy.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrates the tomato flavor.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Adds smoothness and sweetness.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Adds moisture and depth; substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Basil Brings classic Italian flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano Complements the sauce beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Italian Parsley Brightens the sauce with freshness.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Infuses additional flavor; replace with meatballs or omit.

Equipment

  • large roasting pan
  • large stockpot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large roasting pan, combine the red wine, olive oil, and beef short ribs. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well-coated and spread evenly.
  2. Roast the mixture for about 1 hour and 30 minutes until the short ribs are browned and fragrant. Watch for the fat to render nicely.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a large stockpot. Add an additional cup of red wine and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and let simmer for 30 minutes.
  4. Add in the whole peeled tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth, followed by dried basil and oregano. Stir well.
  5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  6. Remove the short ribs from the pot, shred the meat from the bones, and stir back into the gravy. If using, add the cooked Italian sausage and simmer for an additional hour.
  7. Serve over cooked pasta, pairing with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavor improves upon reheating.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!