Sunday Gravy Recipe (Italian Sunday Sauce) (2024)

Welcome to the heart of Sunday dinners – our classic Sunday Gravy recipe, aka Sunday Sauce. Born from tradition and simmered to perfection, this Italian-American staple is more than just a sauce; it’s a ritual.

I convinced my Italian boyfriend to share his authentic version of the classic Sunday Gravy. Slow-cooked with love, this savory blend of tomatoes, meats, and aromatic spices creates a rich and comforting sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian Vibes: The authentic Italian flavors feel like a warm hug from Nonna.
• Slow-Simmered Goodness: The slow-cooking process not only enhances the flavors of the ingredients but also fills your home with irresistible aromas.
• Leftover Sauce: Flavors cozy up even more when you enjoy it the next day. It’s like a gift that keeps on giving.
• Traditions: Create a Sunday tradition that’s more than a meal; it’s a cozy gathering that brings lots of smiles.

Ingredients

• Fresh Tomatoes: Base for the sauce, providing a rich, natural tomato flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Sugar: Balances acidity, creating a milder taste by countering the natural tartness of tomatoes.
• Garlic: Adds a savory and aromatic element to enhance overall flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the taste and brings out the flavors of other ingredients.
• Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the sauce.
• Oregano, Basil, Thyme: Herb trio for a classic Italian seasoning profile, contributing to the sauce’s aroma and taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
• Italian Sausage: Infuses meaty and savory notes into the sauce.
• Meatballs: Introduces a hearty and protein-rich element, contributing to the overall texture and taste of the sauce.

How to Make Sunday Gravy

Step 1: Cut ends off of tomatoes, then chop.

Step 2: Puree the tomatoes in a food processor or blender. This will have to be done in batches. Pour into slow cooker.

Step 3: Stir the remaining ingredients (except for the meat) and set cook temperature to low.

Step 4: Fry the Italian sausage links until seared and browned. Add to the Sunday sauce.

Step 5: Make Italian meatballs and bake them for about 20 minutes before adding them to the Sunday sauce.

Step 6: Let the Sunday Gravy simmer for 6-8 hours, then serve over your choice of pasta.

Helpful Tips

• Using ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the robust base is my preferred method, but you can use three 28-ounce cans of high-quality canned crushed tomatoes to save time.
• Use sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a well-rounded flavor without an overpowering tartness.
• Use fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a vibrant and authentic taste. But, if using dried spices, alter the amounts to 1 tablespoon of oregano and basil and 1/2 tablespoon of thyme.
• Sear meats like Italian sausage links and meatballs before adding to the sauce to develop deeper flavors.
• To cook on the stove, use a large stockpot and simmer for 4-5 hours, stirring frequently so the Italian Sunday gravy doesn’t stick or burn.
• Savor the leftovers! The flavors often intensify the next day, so consider making the sauce ahead for even more delicious.

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