If there’s one dish that embodies comfort, tradition, and family, it’s a hearty pot of Sunday Gravy. Made famous by the iconic Sopranos series, this classic Italian-American recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce, packed with tender meats and bold flavors, brings everyone to the table like nothing else can.
Sopranos Sunday Gravy Recipe
Indulge in the flavors of tradition with this Sopranos Sunday Gravy, a staple of Italian-American cuisine. This dish combines a medley of meats and a hearty tomato sauce, offering a meal that’s as rich in taste as it is in history. Let’s dive step-by-step into crafting the perfect Sunday Gravy.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need for this iconic gravy:
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Meats:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 pound pork ribs or pork shoulder
- 1/2 pound beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 8 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
For Serving:
- 1 pound spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Meats
Begin by heating olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Brown the Italian sausage, pork ribs, and beef chuck in batches, ensuring every side is golden. Remove each batch and set aside. This step builds the base for a robust flavor profile.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same pot, lower the heat slightly. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, releasing its aromatic essence.
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes, water, sugar, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer with the Meats
Return the browned meats (except the meatballs) to the sauce. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking allows the meats to tenderize and infuses the sauce with their rich flavors.
5. Add Meatballs
In the last hour of simmering, gently add the meatballs to the sauce. They’ll absorb the flavor while adding their own hearty touch to the gravy.
6. Cook the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti or your preferred pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for an al dente texture, as it will hold up better with the rich sauce.
7. Combine and Serve
Carefully remove the meats from the sauce and place them on a serving platter. Toss the pasta with a few ladles of the tomato sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. Serve immediately with the meats on the side, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time Overview
| Process | Duration |
|---|---|
| Meat prep and searing | 20 minutes |
| Sauce simmering | 3-4 hours |
| Pasta cooking | 10-12 minutes |
Embrace this recipe and create your own version of a Sopranos masterpiece, transforming your kitchen into an ode to Italian-American heritage.
Ingredients
To create the iconic Sopranos Sunday Gravy, we’ll need a robust combination of quality meats, fresh aromatics, and pantry staples. Below, we break it down into sections for clarity and ease of preparation.
For The Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Tip: Fresh parsley enhances the meatballs’ flavor, so try not to skip it!
For The Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (12 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar or to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 6 bone-in pork ribs, halved
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
Pro tip: Adding pork ribs and sausage lends the sauce incredible depth and richness!
Additional Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni, ziti, or spaghetti (cooked al dente)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Crusty Italian bread (optional, for serving)
To help visualize, here’s a quick table of the meat variety in our recipe for easy reference:
| Meat Type | Use |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Meatballs |
| Ground Pork | Meatballs |
| Italian Sausage | Flavoring the Sauce |
| Bone-In Pork Ribs | Enriching Sauce with Depth |
| Pancetta | Adding Smoky, Salty Flavor |
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect Sopranos Sunday Gravy requires the right tools and equipment to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the tools you’ll need to achieve that rich, flavorful sauce and tender meats, just like in the series.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A sturdy, heavy-duty pot is essential to accommodate all the meats and sauce, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing burning during the long simmer.
- Baking Sheet: For browning the meatballs evenly before adding them to the sauce.
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two large mixing bowls—one for combining the meatball mixture and another for other prep tasks like seasoning prep.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce, scraping browned bits, and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Tongs: A pair of tongs will help with searing the meats like sausage, ribs, and pancetta efficiently.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing aromatics like onions and garlic and chopping herbs like parsley and basil.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board for all your prepping needs.
- Microplane or Fine Grater: Perfect for grating Parmesan cheese and garlic finely.
- Colander: Use this to strain the cooked pasta before serving.
Additional Equipment
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters when balancing flavors like seasoning and sugar for the sauce.
- Small Sauté Pan: For lightly toasting breadcrumbs or sautéing aromatics like garlic in olive oil before adding them to the meatball mixture.
- Kitchen Scale (Optional): For accurately measuring the weights of ground meats and ensuring consistent meatball sizes.
- Ladle: A ladle is ideal for spooning the sauce generously over pasta and meats when serving.
- Serving Platter or Pasta Dish: Showcase the Sopranos Sunday Gravy beautifully when it’s time to serve.
Equipment Preparation Checklist
To help keep things organized, here’s a quick overview of what’s needed and how we’ll use them throughout the recipe:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Dutch Oven | Slow simmering sauce and cooking meats |
| Baking Sheet | Browning meatballs |
| Mixing Bowls | Preparation of meatball mixture and sauces |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring and deglazing |
| Tongs | Handling meats during searing |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping ingredients |
| Cutting Board | Dicing and mincing aromatics |
| Grater | Finely grating Parmesan and garlic |
| Colander | Draining pasta |
| Measuring Equipment | Ensuring flavor accuracy |
Having all of these items prepped and within reach will make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable as we craft an authentic Sopranos Sunday Gravy.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect Sopranos Sunday Gravy. From prepping the ingredients to serving an authentic, hearty Italian-American meal, every stage is essential to building bold flavors and tender textures.
Prep The Ingredients
- Gather all ingredients and have them ready. Chop the onions and mince the garlic for both the sauce and the meatballs.
- Slice the Italian sausage and cut the pancetta into small pieces.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for the meatballs and serving. Ensure your fresh herbs, like basil and parsley, are washed and chopped.
- Prepare mixing bowls for the meatball assembly and have the meats unpacked and ready to go.
Make The Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Minced garlic (2 cloves), parsley (chopped), oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mix the ingredients together by hand until everything is evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. You should yield around 16-18 meatballs.
Sear The Meat And Sausage
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides. Each batch should take 6-8 minutes. Transfer them to a plate when done.
- Next, brown the Italian sausage links and bone-in pork ribs in the same pot. Let each side achieve a golden crust. This step locks in the juices and flavor. Set aside all meats.
Prepare The Sauce
- In the same Dutch oven, leave a small amount of fat from searing (around 1 tablespoon) and discard the rest. Add 1 medium chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté over medium heat until soft and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
- Pour in 2 cans (28 oz each) of crushed tomatoes and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.
- Toss in fresh basil leaves and stir.
Simmer The Gravy
- Return the seared meats and meatballs to the sauce, layering them gently to ensure everything is coated.
- Toss in the pancetta and make sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Cover the pot partially with the lid and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let the gravy cook slowly for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- The sauce will thicken, and the meats will become tender enough to fall off the bone. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.
Cook The Pasta
- When the gravy is almost done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta (rigatoni, spaghetti, or ziti) and cook according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta in a colander but reserve 1 cup of the pasta water in case the gravy needs loosening.
- Toss the cooked pasta with a few ladles of sauce for added flavor before serving.
Pro Tip: Serve the dish family-style with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and some crusty Italian bread on the side to soak up the rich, flavorful gravy.
Assembly And Serving
Once our Sopranos Sunday Gravy has simmered to perfection and the meats are tender, it’s time to bring everything together for the ultimate family-style feast. Follow these steps to assemble and serve like a true Italian-American tradition:
1. Remove Meats and Finish the Sauce
Using tongs, carefully remove all the meats—sausages, pork ribs, and meatballs—from the sauce and place them on a serving platter. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm.
Now focus on the sauce. Use a wooden spoon to gently stir and make sure it has a smooth, rich consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if necessary.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of well-salted water and cook your choice of pasta (we suggest rigatoni, spaghetti, or penne) until al dente, as per the package instructions. Drain the pasta using a colander, but reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning. Toss the drained pasta lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Toss Pasta with Sauce
Add the freshly cooked pasta to the sauce in the pot. Gently toss it until each strand or piece is well-coated in the luscious, red gravy. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
4. Serve the Meats Separately
Place the warm platter of meats at the center of the table. This allows family and guests to pick their favorites from the flavorful assortment of Italian sausage, pork ribs, and hearty meatballs.
5. Garnish and Serve Family-Style
Serve the sauced pasta in a separate large bowl or directly from the pot for an authentic, casual touch. Sprinkle the top generously with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil or parsley for added color and flavor. Pair the dish with warm, crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
Here’s a quick assembly checklist to keep things organized:
| Task | Tools/Items Needed |
|---|---|
| Remove meats | Tongs, serving platter |
| Cook pasta | Large pot, colander |
| Toss pasta with sauce | Wooden spoon, pasta water |
| Serve meats separately | Platter, foil |
| Garnish | Parmesan, basil/parsley |
Dining Tip
Embrace the tradition of family-style dining, encouraging everyone to serve themselves and savor the communal experience. A bottle of full-bodied Chianti or Barbera wine makes this meal feel even more like an ode to Italian heritage.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Sopranos Sunday Gravy ahead of time not only saves effort on the big day but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight. Here’s how we can efficiently plan and execute this classic dish in advance:
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix and Shape: Follow the recipe instructions to mix and shape the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet.
- Cook Ahead: Sear the meatballs in olive oil as instructed. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
2. Sear Meats
- Sear the Italian sausage, pancetta, and pork ribs per the recipe. Allow them to cool fully before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze.
3. Make the Sauce
- Prepare the Tomato Base: Cook the sauce according to the instructions but stop before adding the meats. Cool the sauce completely, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Storage Chart
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezer Time |
|---|---|---|
| Meatballs | Up to 2 days | Up to 3 months |
| Searing Meats | Up to 2 days | Up to 3 months |
| Tomato Sauce Base | Up to 3 days | Up to 3 months |
4. Reheating and Assembly
- Thawing Frozen Components: If frozen, allow components to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Combine and Simmer: When ready to serve, combine the prepped meatballs, seared meats, and sauce in a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until the sauce is beautifully thickened and the meats are fork-tender.
- Cook Fresh Pasta: Boil your pasta while the gravy is reheating. Toss the pasta with sauce and serve with grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread.
Tips For The Perfect Sopranos Sunday Gravy
Mastering the Sopranos Sunday Gravy requires attention to detail and a few essential tips to make your dish truly unforgettable. Below, we share practical advice and insider tricks to elevate your gravy and ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
1. Choose Quality Ingredients
- Use high-quality, fresh meats like Italian sausage, pork ribs, and pancetta. The quality of the meat significantly affects the flavor of the gravy.
- Opt for San Marzano tomatoes or a trusted brand of crushed tomatoes for a smooth, rich tomato base.
- Always choose fresh herbs—basil and parsley—for vibrant aromas and flavors.
“The better your ingredients, the better your Sunday Gravy will taste.”
2. Sear Your Meats
- Sear the meats, such as sausage, ribs, and pancetta, until well-browned. This process creates a caramelized layer that intensifies the sauce’s flavor.
- Use a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking.
3. Low and Slow is Key
- Simmering the gravy on low heat for 4-6 hours allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Patience is as vital as the ingredients.
Here’s a handy simmering time breakdown for your convenience:
| Meat Type | Searing Time | Simmering Time |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Sausage | 7-10 minutes | 4-6 hours |
| Pork Ribs (Bone-in) | 5-8 minutes | 4-6 hours |
| Meatballs (Homemade) | 6-8 minutes | 4-6 hours |
4. Layer the Flavors
- Start by sautéing onion and garlic in olive oil. This base brings a sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- Add small quantities of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. We suggest starting with a teaspoon and adjusting as needed.
5. Perfect the Meatballs
- Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, fresh garlic, parsley, eggs, and Italian seasoning evenly in your meatball mixture for optimal flavor.
- Avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender and moist.
Pro Tip: Fry or bake the meatballs before adding them to the sauce to lock in their texture and flavor.
6. Don’t Skip the Bones
- Cooking with bone-in pork ribs enriches the sauce by releasing natural gelatin and adding a silky texture.
7. Season as You Go
- Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Add salt, pepper, and oregano gradually rather than all at once.
8. Plan for Leftovers
- This dish tastes even better the next day. Double the recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers for easy meals later in the week.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 3 days |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months |
9. Serve with the Right Pairings
- Pair the Sopranos Sunday Gravy with freshly cooked pasta, grated Parmesan cheese, and crusty Italian bread.
- For an authentic Italian-American touch, serve with a bottle of Chianti or Barbera wine.
10. Embrace the Family-Style Tradition
- Serve the gravy in a large platter family-style. Place the pasta tossed with the sauce in the center, and arrange meats like sausage, ribs, and meatballs around it. This presentation highlights the dish’s rustic charm.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about gathering around the table to enjoy a homemade Sopranos Sunday Gravy. This dish isn’t just about the rich, slow-simmered flavors—it’s about the memories created and the tradition celebrated with every bite.
By following this recipe, we can bring a piece of Italian-American heritage into our kitchens and share it with those we love. So let’s embrace the process, savor the aromas, and make every Sunday a little more delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sopranos Sunday Gravy?
Sopranos Sunday Gravy is a classic Italian-American dish consisting of a rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce with various meats like meatballs, sausage, and pork ribs. Popularized by the TV series The Sopranos, it’s a hearty meal designed for family-style dining.
Why is it called “Sunday Gravy”?
The name “Sunday Gravy” stems from Italian-American traditions of slow-cooking a meat-filled sauce on Sundays, bringing families together for a hearty, celebratory meal.
What ingredients are needed for Sopranos Sunday Gravy?
Key ingredients include olive oil, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh basil, Italian sausage, bone-in pork ribs, pancetta, and seasonings. For the meatballs, you’ll need ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, and spices.
How do you make the perfect meatballs for Sunday Gravy?
Combine ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Shape, brown in olive oil, and simmer them in the sauce to absorb flavor.
What tools are essential for making Sunday Gravy?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven for even cooking, a baking sheet for browning meatballs, mixing bowls, a wooden spoon, tongs, a sharp knife, and a colander for pasta draining.
How long should Sunday Gravy simmer?
Sunday Gravy should simmer for 3-4 hours to fully develop its rich, complex flavors.
Can I prepare Sunday Gravy in advance?
Yes, you can make meatballs, sear the meats, and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store components in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to serve Sunday Gravy?
Serve the sauce family-style over cooked pasta with the meats on the side. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pair with crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
What type of pasta pairs best with Sunday Gravy?
Thick pasta like rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti works best as it holds up well to the hearty sauce.
Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the flavors.
How can I enhance the flavor of Sunday Gravy?
Sear meats for depth, use fresh basil and parsley, and layer seasonings throughout the cooking process. Allowing the sauce to simmer slowly is key to achieving a rich flavor.
What drinks pair well with Sopranos Sunday Gravy?
Pair Sunday Gravy with a glass of Chianti or Barbera wine to complement the Italian flavors.