Step 1

In a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage (remove from casings) and/or ground beef and chopped onion and cook, crumbling, until browned.

Step 2

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the garlic. Cook 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful to not let the garlic burn.

Step 3

Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper and fresh parsley. Stir.

Step 4

Bring to a simmer and then reduce the heat to a very low simmer. Partially cover the pot, leaving just a little room for steam to escape. Cook at a low simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes. The longer you cook the sauce, the thicker and more richly flavored it will become. If it gets too thick, stir in a little more water.

Step 5

Stir in the fresh basil (if using) and serve.