Some recipes become part of a family’s story. They aren’t measured by how often they’re made, but by the memories created every time they’re brought to the table. Michael’s Homemade Pasta Sauce is one of those recipes.

Passed down through generations of the Pozzan family, this hearty sauce began with Michael’s great-grandmother in Italy. Over the years, each generation has added its own touch while preserving the heart of the recipe. Today, it’s still a favorite for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and any occasion that calls for slowing down and sharing a meal with the people you love.

Built on a foundation of ground beef, Italian sausage, tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and porcini mushrooms, the sauce develops its rich flavor with one essential ingredient: a generous pour of Cabernet Sauvignon. As it simmers low and slow, the wine deepens the flavors, adding complexity and bringing every ingredient together into a beautifully balanced sauce.

We love pairing this family favorite with our Michael Pozzan Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Its generous notes of blackberry, cassis, and subtle spice mirror the richness of the sauce while its smooth structure complements every bite. The wine isn’t simply an ingredient—it’s the perfect companion at the table, making the meal feel complete from the first taste to the last.

Like many Italian family recipes, this sauce rewards patience. A long, gentle simmer allows the flavors to develop, and if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, it’s even better the next day. Served over your favorite pasta with fresh basil and plenty of Parmesan, it’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to linger just a little longer.

At Michael Pozzan Winery, we believe wine has always belonged at the table. It’s meant to bring people together, spark conversation, and become part of family traditions—just like this recipe has for ours.

Ingredients

1/2 pound ground beef or ground veal
1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1/3 cup olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup loosely packed parsley, chopped
3/4 cup Michael Pozzan Cabernet Sauvignon
1/2 ounce dried porcini mushrooms, soaked in 3/4 cup warm water and chopped
2 (16-ounce) cans Italian stewed tomatoes, chopped
2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
1 (15-ounce) can chicken stock
Pinch of sugar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 pound fresh mushrooms (optional)
1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Sauté the first seven ingredients over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Add the Cabernet Sauvignon, chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken stock, porcini mushrooms with their soaking liquid, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything together and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and continue cooking over low heat for approximately 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Uncover and continue simmering for another 2 to 3 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken. If needed, add a small amount of water during the first hour of cooking, but avoid adding water toward the end so the sauce remains rich and concentrated.

Serve over your favorite pasta, finish with fresh Parmesan and basil, pour a glass of Michael Pozzan Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and enjoy the meal the way the Pozzan family always has—with good conversation and the people who matter most.