Clare and Carl's Michigan Sauce Recipe
Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce recipe is a true classic. This rich, meaty sauce is a specialty in upstate New York. It is traditionally served over hot dogs and has gained cult status.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef lean
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Heat skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and break apart.
- Cook until lightly browned.
- Drain excess fat from skillet.
- Add onions and garlic.
- Cook until onions soften slightly.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook.
- Add tomato sauce and water.
- Mix in mustard and Worcestershire.
- Add chili powder, paprika, cayenne.
- Stir well and reduce heat.
- Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over grilled hot dogs.
Notes
- Use lean beef for less grease.
- Simmer sauce longer for richer flavor.
- Add cayenne for extra heat.
- Serve sauce fresh for best taste.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers.
- Reheat slowly to keep texture.
- Double recipe for larger gatherings.