olive oil

1 large onion diced

1 garlic head diced

1 T fresh oregano chopped (about 4 sprigs)

2 T fresh basil chopped (about 16 leaves), divided

3 28 oz cans plum tomatoes (we use redpack)

3 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes (we use redpack)

1 can water

6 t sugar

1 t salt

1 lb uncooked sweet italian sausage

1 lb uncooked meatballs

coat bottom of stockpot with oil and sauté onions until translucent

add garlic, 1 T basil, and oregano and sauté for another minute

add tomatoes, water, sugar and salt and bring to a boil

reduce to simmer and add sausage and meatballs

simmer for 3½ hours, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks

remove meats to a platter and add remaining basil

serve over pasta, adding meats and grated cheese