Classic Sunday Gravy (48g Protein)

Published: 8/6/2026

The Family Peace long-simmered meat sauce. In Italian-American culture, the distinction between sauce and gravy is defined by the inclusion of meat — this multi-protein powerhouse is designed for Sunday recovery.

Ingredients (8 servings)

• 1 lb (450 g) pork spare ribs
• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausages
• 1 lb (450 g) beef meatballs, pre-seared
• 56 oz (1.6 kg) crushed tomatoes
• 6 oz (170 g) tomato paste
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 tsp (3 g) dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Hour 0: Brown the pork ribs in the olive oil in a large pot. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, then begin simmering over low heat.
2. Hour 1.5: Add the seared Italian sausages to the sauce.
3. Hour 3: Gently drop in the pre-browned meatballs.
4. Hour 4: The meat should be falling-off-the-bone tender. Remove the bones before serving the gravy over pasta.

Pro Tips

• Long Simmer: The four-hour cook is non-negotiable — the meat slowly releases its flavor into the sauce, and the sauce reduces into something impossibly rich.
• Pre-Sear Everything: Browning the ribs, sausages, and meatballs before they hit the sauce builds deep Maillard flavor in every layer.

See Also

• Classic Beef Stroganoff (Finnish Style)
• Authentic Beef Braciole
• Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Categories: mains, stews-braising, comfort-food