Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (casing removed)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 56 oz crushed tomatoes (two 28 oz cans)
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon or meat masher to break the meat into small crumbles. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes to allow for browning.