Authentic Italian Gravy Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of capturing the heart and soul of Italian cooking in one pot, then this recipe for Authentic Italian Gravy will make your dreams come true. This hearty and flavorful sauce is much more than a simple tomato base; it’s a lovingly crafted blend of slow-roasted beef short ribs, rich herbs, and robust wines that meld together over hours of simmering. Every spoonful bursts with deep, savory goodness that makes it perfect for Sunday family dinners or impressing your closest friends. This gravy is comfort on a plate, telling a story of tradition and passion through every ingredient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Authentic Italian Gravy lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients, each bringing something truly essential to the table. From the richness of the beef short ribs and Italian sausage to the bright notes of fresh parsley, these components combine to create a sauce that is both rich and beautifully balanced in flavor and texture.

• 1 cup red wine (plus 1/4 cup): Adds a deep, fruity acidity that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: For a smooth base and authentic Italian flavor.
• 4 beef short ribs: Slow roasting them infuses the gravy with meaty richness and body.
• 1 large onion (chopped): Brings sweetness and depth after caramelizing during roasting.
• 6 garlic cloves (minced): Gives that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds warmth and a subtle bite.
• 2 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes: The classic Italian sauce base, bursting with natural sweetness and acidity.
• 1 6-ounce can tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for a luscious finish.
• 1 28-ounce can tomato sauce: Provides extra sauciness and body.
• 2 cups beef broth: Deepens the meaty foundation of the gravy.
• 1 tablespoon dried basil: Brings herby, sweet notes reminiscent of sunny Italy.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Adds earthy, fragrant hints.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley: Brightens the sauce with fresh green flavor and color.
• 1 pound Italian sausage (cooked and drained): Introduces savory richness and a little spice to round out the sauce.

How to Make Authentic Italian Gravy

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Meat and Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to get everything ready for roasting. Combine 1 cup of red wine, olive oil, beef short ribs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a roasting pan. Give everything a good stir to make sure the meat and vegetables are evenly coated. This initial roasting stage is crucial as it concentrates the flavors and caramelizes the onions and garlic, building an incredible foundation for your Authentic Italian Gravy.

Step 2: Slow Roast to Perfection

Place the roasting pan into the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This slow roast will soften the rib meat and produce a rich, flavorful fond on the pan’s bottom. As the orange and brown hues develop, you know your sauce is headed toward classic authenticity and mouthwatering depth.

Step 3: Transfer and Simmer with Wine

Once roasted, carefully transfer the entire mixture to a large 6-quart stockpot set over medium-low heat. Stir in the remaining ¼ cup of red wine to deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer gently for 30 minutes, allowing the wine to meld beautifully with the meat and aromatics.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Herbs

Next, stir in the canned whole peeled tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and fresh Italian parsley. These classic Italian ingredients transform your sauce into a vibrant, herbaceous masterpiece. Simmer uncovered while stirring occasionally for 4 to 6 hours, letting the sauce reduce and thicken into the rich gravy you are craving.

Step 5: Final Touches with Sausage

Remove the beef short ribs from the sauce; you can pull the meat off the bones if you wish and return it to the pot for extra heartiness. Then stir in the cooked and drained Italian sausage. Let everything simmer together for another hour. This helps develop that full-bodied, authentic flavor that defines Authentic Italian Gravy.

Step 6: Serve Over Your Favorite Pasta

Once your gravy has simmered to perfection, it’s ready to be spooned generously over a pound of your favorite cooked pasta. This step is where the saucy goodness meets the comforting carbs, creating a dish that invites everyone at the table to dig in and savor every bite.

How to Serve Authentic Italian Gravy

Garnishes

To elevate your serving presentation and flavor profile, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more chopped Italian parsley over the top. A touch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat that balances the rich sauce beautifully. These simple additions make the dish feel celebratory and inviting.

Side Dishes

Authentic Italian Gravy pairs wonderfully with crisp, garlicky toasted bread or a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil. The bread is perfect for sopping up the last bits of that delicious sauce, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style feast, serve your gravy in a large rustic bowl with a ladle, letting guests help themselves. Alternatively, create hearty pasta bowls topped with a dollop of ricotta or fresh mozzarella for creaminess. You can also turn this gravy into a decadent baked pasta by mixing it with rigatoni and mozzarella, then baking until bubbly and golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Authentic Italian Gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

To enjoy this gravy later, freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for easy meals on busy days. The sauce freezes well without losing its vibrant flavor and luscious texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat your gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until warmed through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick. This ensures your gravy tastes just as comforting and fresh as when you first made it.

FAQs

What is the difference between Authentic Italian Gravy and marinara sauce?

Authentic Italian Gravy is a much heartier, meat-based sauce that simmers for hours with beef ribs, sausage, herbs, and multiple tomato products, creating a depth and richness far beyond the lighter, quicker marinara tomato sauce.

Can I use other meats besides beef short ribs?

While beef short ribs add incredible flavor, you can substitute with beef chuck roast or oxtails to maintain the rich, meaty essence in your Authentic Italian Gravy.

Is it necessary to add wine?

Yes, red wine adds a subtle acidity and complexity that brightens and deepens the flavor of the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, use extra beef broth and a splash of vinegar as a substitute.

How long does the gravy need to simmer?

For the best results and truly authentic flavor, simmer your gravy uncovered for at least 4 to 6 hours to allow it to reduce and develop a thick, concentrated taste.

What pasta works best with Authentic Italian Gravy?

Hearty pasta shapes like rigatoni, pappardelle, or ziti are ideal as they catch the chunky gravy in their nooks, giving you a perfect bite every time.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing Authentic Italian Gravy — it’s a celebration of tradition, great ingredients, and slow-cooked love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe rewards your patience and care with every spoonful. Give it a try, and you’ll find a new favorite that becomes a staple in your kitchen and heart.

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