Simple Italian Meat Sauce

I got this recipe from my hubbs cute little Sicilian grandmother. Her meat sauce is a favorite in my hubby's family, they looove this meat sauce its served at all family gatherings. It is so simple to make, and freezes really well. You may also make this recipe in the slow cooker.

• Ready In: 3 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 12-14

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs ground beef
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 5  large  whole garlic cloves
• 1 -3  tablespoon sugar (depending on the acidity of the tomato juice)
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1  teaspoon sweet basil
• 3  bay leaves (take out after cooked)
• 1 (46 ounce) can tomato juice
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

Directions

1. In large pan heat 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, add garlic and sauté, tilt the olive oil in pan to cover the garlic, sauté until opaque.
2. Immediately add tomato juice, sugar, salt, pepper, sweet basil, and bay leaves. Simmer for about 45 minutes.
3. Smash the garlic cloves with a fork, add the tomato paste in sauce and a can of water.
4. In large skillet cook ground beef, drain well (pat with paper towel).
5. Add beef in sauce, and Simmer at least 2 hours until sauce turns dark red.
6. Serve with 1 lb. pasta and fresh grated Asiago cheese.