Old World Italian Meat Sauce

Kittencalskitchen's Note:

This recipe is enough for 15 servings, but can be easily frozen in containers if desired, this sauce tastes even better if made the day before, make certain you have a large pot for this.

• Total Time: 3 hrs 20 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 3 hrs

Ingredients:

Servings: 12

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste, adjust to heat level)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 lbs fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 3 (28 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 -2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4-1/3 tablespoon parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, brown beef and pork with crushed red chili flakes over medium heat until no longer pink; set aside.
2. In another large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and saute the onions and garlic until tender; add in about 1/2 cup red wine, mix well.
3. Add in the sliced mushrooms, rosemary and oregano to skillet, and add another 1/2 cup wine; saute until tender.
4. Add in the browned beef, tomato sauce and tomato paste; simmer for 1 hour; then add in remaining 1 cup wine, simmer on low for another 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Towards the end of cooking, add in the Parmesan cheese, mix to combine and heat through.