Low Sodium Classic Italian Ragu Sauce

Savor the rich, hearty flavors of this **Low Sodium Classic Italian Ragu Sauce**, a healthier take on the beloved Italian staple. Crafted with lean ground beef and pork, finely chopped aromatic vegetables, and delicate herbs like oregano and basil, this slow-simmered masterpiece delivers all the comfort of a traditional ragu without the excess sodium. A splash of red wine and freshly grated nutmeg deepen the flavor, while creamy whole milk adds a luscious finish. Perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta or layering in lasagna, this ragu sauce is an excellent choice for those seeking a heart-conscious, homemade Italian delight. With just 20 minutes of prep and a long simmer that enhances every ingredient, this low-sodium recipe promises a timeless taste that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium Carrot, finely chopped
• 1 Celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 pound Lean ground beef
• 0.5 pound Lean ground pork
• 1 cup Low sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 1 28-ounce can Crushed tomatoes, no salt added
• 0.5 cup Red wine
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried basil
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg, freshly grated
• 0.5 cup Whole milk

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and a pinch of black pepper, sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3

Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef and pork, and cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 10 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add tomato paste and stir well, allowing it to coat the meat and vegetables for about 2 minutes.

Step 6

Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until reduced by half, about 4 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and low sodium beef broth.

Step 8

Add bay leaves, oregano, basil, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg. Stir well to combine.

Step 9

Bring the sauce to a brief boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, partially covered, for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 10

Pour in milk, and give it a good stir. Let it continue to simmer on low for an additional 30 minutes uncovered.

Step 11

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired.

Step 12

Before serving, remove the bay leaves.

Step 13

Serve hot over your choice of pasta or use in lasagna.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1524.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1821.3

Total Fat 106.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 35.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 477.1mg	0%
Sodium 779.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 41.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.0g	0%
Total Sugars 20.5g
Protein 152.6g	0%

Vitamin D 53.7IU	0%
Calcium 360.8mg	0%
Iron 17.3mg	0%
Potassium 2418.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.2%

Protein: 35.3%

Carbs: 9.6%