Sunday sauce with sausage and meatballs is a cherished tradition in many households, especially in our cozy Midwestern town. This dish is all about gathering loved ones around the table and sharing a hearty, comforting meal. The origins of this dish trace back to Italian-American families who would simmer a rich, flavorful sauce all day long, filling the house with irresistible aromas. It's perfect for a Sunday afternoon when you have a little extra time to let the flavors meld together. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring everyone together, and it's sure to become a family favorite.

Sunday sauce pairs beautifully with a simple side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You might also consider serving it over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta to soak up all the delicious sauce. A glass of red wine for the adults and a sparkling grape juice for the kids can make the meal feel extra special. Don't forget to have some grated Parmesan cheese on hand for sprinkling on top!

Servings: 6-8 servings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage links
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.

3. In the same pot, add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside with the sausages.

4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

6. Return the sausages and meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage and ground turkey for the meatballs. If you have picky eaters, consider blending the sauce for a smoother texture before adding the meats back in. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.

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