Savory Fundraiser Spaghetti Sauce

Savory Fundraiser Spaghetti Sauce

We're having a spaghetti benefit dinner at church so the Resident Dragon has been cooking meat sauce all week.  The recipe takes a little time, but it makes a large quantity.  The original was a bit too highly seasoned for me, so I've adjusted it.  Enjoy.

Savory Fundraiser Spaghetti Sauce

3 lb. ground chuck (I prefer 90/10)
3 ribs celery, chopped
1 sweet red pepper, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
1 button garlic, minced
1 T. salt
1 t. black pepper, freshly cracked
1 T. chili powder
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
1 t. Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
4 cups tomato juice
15 oz. can tomato sauce
1 can water

Brown meat, drain off fat.  Saute vegetables, being careful not to burn the garlic.  Add seasonings and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.  Add tomato juice, sauce, and meat, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serve over cooked pasta.

Makes 3 quarts (closer to a gallon).