Linda's Meaty Spaghetti Sauce

Step 1: In a lg. pot saute onions with basil and Italian seasoning, then add hamburger. Cook until meat is no longer pink in the middle. When done, drain all the grease. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook sausage links separately, and after cooked, cut up into bite size pieces. Set aside. When cool, refrigerate until about 1/2 hour before sauce is done, then add to sauce. (This helps the sauce from becoming greasy).

Step 3: Add tomato puree, tomato paste, mushrooms, hot sauce and peppers to meat mixture. Mix well.

Step 4: Add the Red wine, if using.

Step 5: Add salt to taste, starting with 1 tablespoon.

Step 6: Cook on medium heat until sauce comes to a boil, then cook 4-6 hours covered, on low heat so it will slightly bubble while cooking, or until desired thickness.

Step 7: Stir every once in awhile, so the sauce and meat doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 8: A 1/2 hour before serving add sausage from the fridge, and heat until sausage are nice and hot, and sauce is bubbling.

Step 9: Remove Bay Leaves before serving.

Step 10: Serve with your favorite pasta.

Step 11: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, if desired.