Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce

Easy Homemade Marinara Sauce

This Easy homemade Marinara sauce is an Italian mother sauce, from this basic recipe the meal possibilities are endless. Marinara sauce is a tomato sauce usually made with tomatoes, garlic and herbs.

Your going to love this recipe for so many reasons. First you only need a few pantry ingredients, seven to be exact, if your counting the water. Second it’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you never made it before. Another thing this Easy Marinara Sauce is freezer friendly. One important thing about this recipe since it’s make with tomatoes, be sure to use the best brand you can find, here’s the crushed tomatoes and the tomato sauce I use. When I make it I always make more than I need and freeze it in different size containers for ready made meals or to add to recipe.

But the best part is it’s one of those Italian sauces everyone loves.

If your looking for a good all around stock pot this is the one I use for most of my sauces, stews,  and soups. It’s the prefect size comes with a lid and it’s good quality, so you only need one.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons each olive oil and butter
  • 1 chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 bunch chopped Italian parsley
  • 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes ( preferably San Marzano)
  • 1 14 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1 -2 cups  of water from rinsing out the cans
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh or dry oregano
  • 1 cup  chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  1. In a medium size stock pot bring the oil and butter to medium heat
  2. Chop the onion, parsley and garlic together add to the stock pot
  3. Saute until tender and just beginning to brown
  4. Add the rest of the ingredients except for the basil
  5. Bring to a boil lower the heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes stirring occasionally. Uncover, add the basil and simmer 15 minutes longer. ENJOY!!!
  6. You said:
    You said:
    If you’re adding pre-baked meatballs or Italian sausage to your easy marinara, just nestle them into the sauce once it’s simmering. Let everything cook together for an additional 30 minutes, uncovered or partially covered, to allow the flavors to meld. This gentle simmer infuses the sauce with the savory richness of the meat while keeping the texture of your baked meatballs or sausage intact. It’s a simple way to transform a basic marinara into a satisfying, protein-packed main dish.
    ChatGPT said:

    Here are a few great storage options for your easy marinara sauce:

    1. Refrigerator (Short-Term)

    • How long: Up to 5 days

    • Container: Airtight glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers

    • Tip: Let the sauce cool completely before refrigerating

    2. Freezer (Long-Term)

    • How long: Up to 3 months

    • Container:

      • Freezer-safe zip bags (lay flat for easy stacking)

      • Plastic deli containers

      • Glass mason jars (leave room at the top for expansion)

    • Tip: Label with date and portion size

    3. Ice Cube Trays (For Small Portions)

    • How long: Up to 3 months in freezer

    • Use: Perfect for quick meals or sauces for 1

    • Tip: Once frozen, pop cubes into a freezer bag for easy access




Italian olive oil dip and marinade

Italian olive oil dip and marinade

In our Italian restaurants, we always placed a small bowl of olive oil on the table—simple, unassuming, and always appreciated. It was usually just olive oil, and balsamic vinegar with a touch of garlic or dried herbs. Nothing fancy, but it brought warmth and welcome to the table.

This recipe is a love letter to that memory—with a little more flair. It’s an elevated Italian-style dipping oil made with briny green olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and plenty of garlic. It’s bold, herby, a little spicy, and totally addictive.

And just like many good Italian recipes, it’s versatile. It works beautifully as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables—or spooned over grilled bread or roasted potatoes.

Things to know about this Italian olive oil dip and marinade recipe

1. It’s based on our old restaurant classic.
We used to serve a much simpler version—just olive oil with garlic and dried herbs. This version is a flavorful upgrade that still feels nostalgic and authentic.

2. It does double duty.
This isn’t just for dipping bread! It works beautifully as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, fish, or roasted vegetables. You can even drizzle it over grilled meats, pasta, or use it as a base for bruschetta.

3. It gets better as it sits.
The longer it rests, the more the garlic, olives, and herbs infuse into the oil. Make it a few hours—or even a day—ahead for the best flavor.

4. Use good-quality olive oil.
Because olive oil is the base, the flavor really matters here. Use a bold, peppery extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic Italian taste.

5. Customize it to your taste.
Prefer black olives? Use them! Like more heat? Add extra chili flakes. Don’t have fresh basil? Skip it or swap in thyme. The recipe is flexible and forgiving.

6. It stores well.
You can keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving—the olive oil will solidify when chilled.

7. It adds instant Italian flavor.
This is one of those “secret weapon” recipes to keep in your fridge. A spoonful can instantly transform roasted veggies, grilled proteins, or even a plain bowl of pasta.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup( total) of mixed  green olives and kalamata olives, pitted and roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped sundried tomatoes in oil
  • 2 gloves finely minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes ( adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 Tbsp. each chopped fresh  Italian parsley and basil

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.

  2. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

  3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

  4. Serve at room temperature. Enjoy!!!




Easy No-Cook Pizza Sauce

Easy No-Cook Pizza Sauce

This easy no-cook pizza sauce is made with crushed tomatoes and smooth tomato sauce—ready in minutes and packed with bold Italian flavor.

It’s the same simple, delicious sauce we used at our family’s pizzeria—the first pizza place in our town to offer delivery, even before Domino’s! Whether you’re making a quick weeknight pizza or recreating nostalgic takeout nights, this sauce brings authentic pizzeria taste right to your kitchen.

 Things to know about This easy no-cook pizza sauce

  • Use quality tomatoes: For the best flavor, use good-quality canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Look for San Marzano or Italian-style plum tomatoes if possible—they’re naturally sweeter and lower in acidity, which gives the sauce that rich, pizzeria-style taste. If they are whole crush them with your hands. for a slight chunky sauce or blend if you prefer a smoother consistency.

  • No cooking needed: This sauce comes together with just a bowl and a spoon—no stove required. It’s perfect for busy nights or homemade pizza parties.

  • Customize to taste: Add a pinch of sugar for sweetness, a splash of olive oil for richness, or a sprinkle of dried oregano and garlic powder for a classic Italian flair.

  • Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze in portions. It keeps beautifully and makes pizza night even faster next time.

  • Great on more than pizza: Try it as a quick dipping sauce for breadsticks, calzones, or mozzarella sticks! If your looking for a delicious pizza crust recipe I have one for you Neapolitan overnight pizza dough

Easy No -Cook Pizza Sauce

  1. You said:
    ChatGPT said:

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup canned tomato sauce

    • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano-style)

    • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced

    • 1 tablespoon dried oregano

    • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

    • 1 teaspoon onion powder

    • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)

    • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
    • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    Instructions:

    1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes until smooth.

    2. Add the garlic, oregano, basil, onion powder, parmesan,  sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes.

    3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

    4. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir well to combine.

    5. Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

    Use immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce also freezes well for up to 3 months.




Easy 4-Ingredient Strawberry Jam

Easy 4-Ingredient Strawberry Jam

There’s nothing quite like making a batch of homemade strawberry jam — it fills the kitchen with the sweetest smell and always reminds me of how simple ingredients can create something really special. This easy 4- ingredient strawberry jam recipe  uses just strawberries, sugar, orange slices, and one clever little trick: a whole apple simmered in the pot to naturally thicken the jam without any added pectin. The apple does its job and is removed before jarring, leaving you with pure, vibrant strawberry flavor.

It’s an old-school method I love — no fuss, no fancy ingredients — just a beautifully rich jam that’s perfect on toast, spooned over yogurt, or tucked into a dessert like my Crostata di Marmellata. It’s one of those recipes that feels good to make and even better to share. Make it with me!!!!

Things to Know About This Easy 4 Ingredient Strawberry Jam Recipe

What Makes This Jam So Special — Simple Ingredients, Natural Thickening, and Big Flavor

This recipe is all about celebrating simplicity. Using just four everyday ingredients — fresh strawberries, sugar, orange slices, and a whole apple — it creates a wonderfully thick, naturally set jam without any store-bought pectin. The  apple is the secret helper: it releases natural pectin during cooking and is removed before you jar the jam, leaving pure strawberry flavor with the perfect texture.

You don’t need any fancy equipment or ingredients, just a bit of patience as the jam gently simmers to perfection. Whether you’re new to making jam or an old pro, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and perfect for preserving the sweet taste of summer all year long. If you love the fresh taste of strawberries use this easy 4 -ingredient strawberry jam in  for the filling My Crostata di marmellata 

Ingredients

  • 2 Lbs. fresh strawberries , washed, hulled and sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
  • 1 medium unpeeled apple sliced in quarters
  • 1 unpeeled orange cut in slices

Instructions

  1. Prep the Fruit: wash the apple leave the peel on , it contains the most pectin. Wash the strawberries thoroughly, then slice them for a chunky texture or blend them for a smooth jam
  2. Combine the ingredients: In a medium sauce pan combine the strawberries, sugar, apple and orange slices. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the strawberries to  release it’s juices
  3. Cook the Jam: Bring to a boil over medium high heat, stirring often . Reduce the heat to a keep a slow simmer, stir frequently to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the jam has thicken.(20-25 minutes)
  4. Jar and store: Spoon the hot jam into 3 -4 eight oz.  sterilized jars. Let cool to room temperature then refrigerate. Lasts about 2-3 weeks. ENJOY!!!!



homemade fresh tomato sauce

 homemade fresh tomato sauce

There’s nothing quite like the taste of  homemade fresh  tomato sauce. It’s vibrant , naturally sweet, and captures the essence of peak of the season tomatoes. Whether spooned over pasta, used as a base for other dishes, or simply enjoyed with crusty bread, this sauce is a staple in my Italian kitchen.

While canned tomatoes are a convenient option, fresh tomatoes add a lighter, brighter flavor that truly elevates a dish. Although delicious any time of the year, using ripe , in-season tomatoes ensures the best taste, making this sauce a summer favorite when tomatoes are at their peak.

Things to know when making Easy fresh homemade tomato sauce

The best sauces start with the best tomatoes. Look for:  Roma or San Marzano – thick flesh, low water content, and rich flavor.

Vine-ripened tomatoes: bursting with natural sweetness

Heirloom tomatoes: Unique flavor and slightly acidity.

How to store fresh tomato sauce: Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze: Let the sauce cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to three months.

Ways to use fresh tomato sauce: Toss with spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic dish.

Use as a base for pizza

Spoon over grilled chicken or eggplant parmesan,

Add to soups or stews for extra flavor.

This fresh tomato sauce is simple, delicious, and the perfect way to enjoy peak-season tomatoes. Give it a try and let me know in the comments how you love to use it in your favorite dishes. ENJOY!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

  • 2 Lbs. fresh tomatoes
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 6-8 fresh torn basil leaves

Instructions

  1. start by washing your tomatoes
  2.  Bring a pot of water to a boil, then turn the heat off and place the tomatoes in the hot water for 5 minutes.
  3.  Let  the tomatoes cool slightly before peeling and chopping them
  4. In a stock pot or Dutch oven in the olive oil over medium high heat saute the onion and parsley until soft and translucent
  5. Add the tomatoes salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Mix well and simmer 20-30 minutes stirring occasionally
  7. For a smooth tomato sauce use an emersion blender or you can leave it chunky
  8. Stir in torn basil leaves and adjust seasoning to taste.
  9. Your fresh tomato sauce is now ready to enjoy over your favorite paste, or store it for later use. ENJOY!!!!



tomato Bolognese meat sauce

 tomato  Bolognese meat sauce

Bolognese is a rich meaty tomato sauce that is a signature dish from Bologna, Italy. In the capital city of Emilia- Romagna, Bolognese is typically served over tagliatelle pasta, or other thick noodles.( but almost never over spaghetti)Deeply rich and meaty, as opposed to saucy, it is the trait that is different in a Bolognese sauce verses spaghetti meat sauce.

There are as many variations of this meat sauce as there people who make it. These variations are the cause of sometimes heated debates. Garlic or no garlic, red or white wine, the amount of tomatoes, did the sauce really originate in Bologna. etc, etc. However the basis of a good Bolognese stays the same. A good Bolognese is a labor of love. But if you have a prep plan in place and a little extra time it really is an easy sauce to make. And you can make it ahead of time , it’s freezer friendly too!! So make a double batch one for one and one to freeze for a ready made meal.

Notes for this tomato Bolognese meat sauce

It may seem like a long list of ingredients, to make this tomato Bolognese meat sauce but note that most are pantry staples you probably have on hand.

I use only ground beef to make my Bolognese. If you prefer, you can use a mix of beef, pork or Italian sausage.

A good Bolognese sauce benefits from the saltiness and smokiness of a cured meat such as pancetta or bacon. I prefer to use pancetta, but use bacon if that is easier for you to get or if it is what you have on hand.

Onions, carrots and celery also known as sofritto in Italian are non-negotiable in a Bolognese sauce. You can chop them by hand or use a food processor to save time on the chopping.

My tomato Bolognese meat sauce is not a complicated recipe and my version doesn’t stray from the classic. It always starts the same way with a sofritto.

So here’s the thing to make this tomato Bolognese meat sauce  recipe easy and stress free you need to plan ahead. Gather the  best ingredients , chop the vegetables before and store them in the fridge . make a large when you have time, portion it, and freeze for quick meals.

These shortcuts will deliver a delicious, rich sauce without the stress. ENJOY!!!

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 cup diced pancetta
  • 1 cup each chopped onion+ carrots + celery
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 28 oz. crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 Lb. tagliatelle
  • Grated parmesan and Italian parsley for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by cooking the pancetta in the olive oil over medium high heat in a stock pot or Dutch oven.
  2. Once the pancetta is crispy add the onion, celery. carrots and garlic. Cook until soft and translucent.
  3. Add in the ground beef and cook until brown. Then deglaze the pot with the red wine waiting until it evaporates before adding the beef stock ,crushed tomatoes and milk. Add the pinch of nutmeg and a few bay leaves.
  4. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours
  5. Cook your pasta el dente
  6. Toss in tis delicious pasta sauce. Top with freshy grated parmesan cheese and chopped Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!



Sausage stuffed shells with bechamel

Sausage stuffed shells with bechamel

There is something undeniably cozy about baked pasta dishes. Sausage stuffed shells with bechamel sauce is a recipe that combines bold flavors with creamy decadence, creating a meal perfect for family gatherings, special occasions or even a quit night in.

This dish takes the traditional idea of stuffed shells and gives it a luxurious twist. Instead of marinara , a velvety bechamel sauce coats the shells, enhancing the savory sausage filling with a creamy richness. Every bite is a delicious blend of tender pasta, flavorful filling, and a smooth sauce baked to perfection.

Tips for success when making sausage stuffed shells with bechamel

1. Prep ahead: cook the pasta , make the filling , and prepare the bechamel sauce up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you are ready to assemble.

2. Use crumbled Italian sausage for faster browning . You can customize your sausage preference by using mild or a combination of mild and spicy.

3. Pipe the filling: Transfer the sausage  filling mixture to a piping bag or a zip -top with the corner snipped for a quick and mess -free stuffing.

Sausage stuffed shells with bechamel sauce is a comforting , crowd- pleasing dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious Italian-inspired meal. Whether you are preparing it for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion , this recipe is sure to impress with it’s creamy sauce, savory filling, and bubbly golden topping. With a little prep and these streamlined tips, you will have a stunning baked pasta dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!!!

Ingredients

  • 32 large shells
  • 1/2 lb. spicy Italian sausage
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1egg slightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Bechamel sauce Ingredients: 1 stick of butter+ 1/4 cup flour+ 4 cups milk+ pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Cook the shells el dente (about 3 minutes less than the package directions) drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium high heat in the olive oil saute the onion and garlic until soft and translucent then add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces. Remove and let cool slightly.
  3. In a bowl combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, egg , parsley and the sausage mixture. Salt and pepper to taste
  4. Make the bechamel sauce In a sauce pan melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden forming a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk stirring continually to prevent lumps until the sauce thickens 5-8 minutes. Add the nutmeg , salt and pepper to taste. remove from the heat.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375-degrees
  6. Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce and the marinara sauce on the bottom of an oven proof baking dish.https://amzn.to/3ZS3CIxhttps://amzn.to/3ZS3CIx
  7. Fill each pasta shell with 1-2 Tablespoons of the sausage mixture and arrange them in the dish .
  8. Pour the remaining bechamel sauce evenly over the shells.
  9. Top the shells with additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake 10 minutes longer or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Top with additional Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!!



Meatball Sunday sauce

Meatball Sunday sauce

There’s something special about Italian Sundays, and  meatball Sunday sauce where life slows down, and the kitchen becomes the heart of the home. For many Italian families,  including my family, Sundays  and sauce go together like peanut butter and jelly. Sunday sauce- a tradition that speaks to generations of love, warmth and togetherness. My easy and quick version,  with tender, flavorful, meatballs is tribute to those cherished moments and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. It’s more than just a meal-it’s a ritual, an experience, and for many, a tradition passed down through generations.

Sunday sauce doesn’t have to be an all- day affair to feel like a special home- cooked meal. My version is designed for the modern home cook- easy to make, quick to assemble, with just 1 1/2 hours of cook time. It’s a perfect recipe to prep ahead of time. With tender meatballs and a rich tomato sauce, this Meatball Sunday sauce recipe delivers all the flavor of a traditional Italian Sunday meal without hours in the kitchen.

Why this Meatball Sunday sauce is prefect for busy days

Minimal prep: The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, no need for fancy techniques or equipment.

Quick Assembly: With a streamlined process, you can have the sauce simmering and the meatballs prepped in under 30 minutes.

Make- ahead friendly: Both the meatballs and the sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for three days or frozen for up to three months. And then reheated for an effortless ready made meal that taste like you spend the whole day cooking.

Versatile: This Sunday sauce can be served over pasta, polenta, or even on it’s own with a side of crusty bread.

Meatball Sunday sauce doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special- this recipe proves that a hearty, flavor meal can come together easily. Whether you enjoy it just made or make ahead, this dish is  guaranteed to bring  joy and Italian tradition to your table.

Ingredients For the Meatballs

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  •  3/4  cup bread crumbs
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
  • 1 Tbsp. finely minced garlic + 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion + 1 Tbsp. onion powder
  • 1 Lb. lean ground beef
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • INGREDIENTS FOR the Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 handful
  • Italian parsley
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 2  San Manzano 14 oz. crushed tomatoes
  • 1 San Manzano  14 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. oregano
  • 1 cup water from rinsing out the tomato cans
  • A few fresh basil leaves
  • 1 Tbsp. butter

Instructions

  1. Start by making the sauce. Chop the onion, garlic and Italian parsley into almost a paste. Then in 2 Tbsp. of olive oil over medium high heat saute the paste until soft and fragrant.
  2. Add the tomatoes rinse out the cans with a little water and add to the stock pot. Bring to a slow simmer. cover and simmer for 1 hour. In the meantime make the meatballs:  Preheat your oven to 375- degrees In a bowl add the eggs, milk, cheese and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 10 minutes. Then add  the rest of the meatball ingredients  except for the ground beef and mix until well combined. Then add the ground beef, and mix just until well mixed. With wet hands form the meat into golf size balls. You  should have 10 meatballs with this amount of ingredients.
  3. Bake the meatballs on a parchment lined cookie sheet for 10 -12 minutes or until just beginning to brown.
  4. After the sauce has been simmering for 1 hour. Add the baked meatballs and simmer the Sunday sauce for 30 minutes longer. Add 1 Tbsp. of butter for a rich finish, and fresh basil. ENJOY!!!!



Sausage mushroom sauce polenta

Sausage mushroom sauce polenta

If your looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and delicious, sausage mushroom sauce polenta is what to make. This dish is the epitome of rustic Italian cooking, blending savory spicy sausage, earthy mushrooms, and velvety polenta into a meal that warms your heart and soul.  Whether served as a casual family meal or Saturday night dinner with friends, it’s a guaranteed hit.

Tips for making sausage mushroom sauce polenta

  1. Choose the right sausage and mushrooms: When I make this dish i like using spicy Italian sausage for it’s bold flavors, and pairs well with cremini mushrooms. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the earthy mushrooms balance the richness. of course you can use any mushroom that you prefer or mild Italian sausage. A splash of red wine makes the sauce even more flavorful- trust me, it’s worth it.
  2. Slow cooked  polenta is key: polenta reminds me of my Italian childhood- it’s comfort food through and through. Stirring the polenta slowly and consistently ensures it turns out creamy and lump-free. Adding parmesan makes it indulgent. the way my family used to enjoy
  3. Layer flavors: One trick I learned is to season each layer. Saute the sausage and mushrooms with onion and garlic , then let the sauce simmer gently. This brings out deep, complex flavors that  makes this dish delicious and unforgettable. Enjoy every moment while making this- it’s one of those meals where the love you put into it really shines through!!!

 

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 lb. sliced cremini  mushrooms
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1 lb. spicy Italian sausage crumbles
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • INGREDIENTS FOR THE POLENTA
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
  • 2 cups polenta
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Start by making the sauce in a saute pan over medium high heat, in the olive oil cook the mushrooms until beginning to brown. Then add the onions and garlic and continue cooking until soft and translucent.
  2. Then add in the sausage cook until brown. Deglaze the pan with the red wine, waiting until it evaporates before  adding in the marinara sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes. In the meantime make the polenta.
  3. In a sauce pan add the stock and milk. Bring to boil , then lower the heat to a simmer. Slowly add in the cornmeal, stirring continuously. When the polenta begins to thicken about 10 minutes , add in the grated parmesan, parsley, salt and pepper.  Adjust the consistency, if to dry add more stock. It should be the consistency of mash potatoes. Add in the Italian parsley. Continue cooking for 5 minutes longer.
  4. Spread the polenta on a platter top with the sausage mushroom sauce top with additional parmesan top with chopped Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!



Three ingredient caramel sauce

Three Ingredient caramel sauce

I almost didn’t write this three ingredient caramel sauce recipe. It felt almost too simple to share. But then I realized the often the easiest recipes the ones you can whip up with minimal effort and ingredients deliver the most flavor. This caramel sauce is exactly that: rich, buttery and velvety smooth made with just three pantry ingredients. Whether you are drizzling it over my pumpkin pie bundt cake , pouring it over pancakes, or using it as a dip for apple slices, it’s a recipe you will come back to time and time again.

Why this three ingredient caramel sauce is so good

A three- ingredient caramel sauce is a game changer because of it’s simplicity and how delicious it is.

1: Minimal ingredients: Made with just sugar, butter and cream, it delivers a luxurious, buttery caramel flavor

2: Perfect texture: The combination of butter and cream creates a silky, pourable consistency that’s perfect for drizzling over desserts like , ice cream , pancakes or your upcoming pumpkin pie bundt cake.

3; It’s easy to make: With only three ingredients, it’s foolproof  and approachable, even for beginners. Plus you can make it in less than 15 minutes.

4: Customizable: Once you master the basic recipe, you can elevate it by adding a pinch of sea salt for salted caramel sauce or a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. It’s simple, satisfying and versatile- what’s not to love?

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of sugar
  • 1/2 stick of butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Start by adding the sugar to a non-stick pan. Cook the sugar over medium low heat until a golden amber color (about 5 minutes) stirring continuously with a wooden spoon.
  2. Add in the butter waiting until it melts before adding in the cream. Keep stirring the caramel sauce until all the sugar is melted. And the sauce is velvety smooth ( about 4-5 minutes) ENJOY!!!!