Kids' Favorite Spaghetti Sauce - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb Italian chicken sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onions
3 minced garlic cloves
2 medium celery ribs, diced
2 carrots, peeled and shredded
1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
1 teaspoon celery salt
1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
14 ounces tomato sauce
11 ounces tomato juice
6 ounces tomato paste
1/4 cup red table wine (optional)
1/2 cup water

Preparation

In a skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage. (You won't need any additional fat; the sausage will provide enough). Use a wooden spoon to crumble and mix the meats.
Meanwhile, in a dutch oven over medium heat, add the oil and onion and saute until onion is limp, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, celery, and carrots and continue to saute for 3 minutes. Stir in the oregano, basil, celery salt, red pepper flakes, and paprika and continue to saute for 2 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the browned meat into the dutch oven. Stir in the tomato sauce, juice, and paste; wine; and water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Turn the heat to low and continue to simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover, and let the sauce cool to room temperature. If desired, use a hand blender to pulse the sauce several times for a smoother consistency. Reheat and serve over your favorite pasta. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 4 months.