Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

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Transform Your Family Dinner with This Classic Comfort Favorite Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce!

As we dive into the realm of comfort food, Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce emerge as a quintessential dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and a rich, thick tomato sauce.

This homemade recipe promises not just a burst of authentic Italian flavors but also the satisfaction of a meal that feels like a warm hug.

The blend of breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and garlic in the meatballs, paired with the simplicity and richness of the tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and a hint of sugar, brings to life a dish that freezes really well, making it the ultimate make-ahead meal.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a family dinner or need a quick and easy pasta recipe for weeknights, these Italian-style meatballs served over your favorite pasta are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Are a “Must-Try”

Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce stand out as not only the ultimate comfort food but also a versatile delight that fits perfectly into any meal plan for the busiest night of the week.

• Homemade Goodness: The traditional Italian meatballs, made with ground beef recipe and simmered in a marinara sauce that is thick and rich, embody the essence of homemade cooking.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: From an easy recipe for weeknights to a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, these meatballs cater to every need, ensuring leftovers taste great even the next day.
• Healthful and Hearty: With ingredients like lean ground beef, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this dish balances rich flavors with nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for family meals.

Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef: Choose a mix of lean and fatty beef for moisture and flavor; about 1 pound should suffice for a family serving.
• Breadcrumbs: Acts as a binder for the meatballs, ensuring they hold their shape while cooking; 1/2 cup is typically enough.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated, adds a nutty and salty depth of flavor; incorporate about 1/4 cup into the mixture.
• Egg: A single large egg helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs don’t fall apart during cooking.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, to infuse the meatballs with a pungent, aromatic taste that complements the beef.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, it adds freshness and a slight peppery taste; about 1/4 cup will do.
• Salt: To taste, but generally about 1 teaspoon to ensure the meat mixture is well-seasoned.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight heat and enhances the overall flavor; use about 1/2 teaspoon.
• Olive Oil: For frying the meatballs; ensures they get a nice, golden-brown crust. You’ll need enough to coat the bottom of your skillet, approximately 2-3 tablespoons.

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Olive Oil: Start with 2 tablespoons to sauté the onion and garlic, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Two additional cloves, minced, to match the robust flavor profile of the meatballs within the sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes: One 28-ounce can provides the sauce’s body and tomatoey goodness; opt for high-quality for the best flavor.
• Sugar: A teaspoon can be added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the sauce’s overall depth.
• Oregano: Dried oregano adds a classic Italian herbaceous note; about 1 teaspoon should be plenty.
• Salt: To taste, but start with 1 teaspoon and adjust as needed to perfectly season the sauce.
• Pepper: Like with the meatballs, a good pinch of freshly ground black pepper to season the sauce; about 1/2 teaspoon.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, not only garnish the dish but add a fresh, peppery flavor that complements the tomato sauce beautifully. Use a handful for garnishing before serving.

Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Instructions

How to make Meatballs in tomato sauce.

Making the Meatballs:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Fry Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they’re browned on all sides. Remove them from the pan and set aside. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce:

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, along with the oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the pan. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Cool Down: Let meatballs and sauce reach room temperature.
• Store: Place in an airtight container; lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing:

• Pre-Freeze: Spread meatballs on a tray to freeze slightly, then transfer to freezer bags.
• Storage: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately in labeled bags; good for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Fridge Leftovers: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
• Frozen: Thaw overnight, then reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Microwave is quicker, heat for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway.

If you’re looking for a lighter variation, our Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe provides a delicious alternative with all the traditional flavors.

What to Serve with Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

The beauty of Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce lies not only in their rich flavor but also in their ability to complement a variety of side dishes.

Whether you’re seeking an easy recipe for weeknights or a traditional Italian meal that fits into your meal plan for the busiest nights, here are some ideal accompaniments:

• Classic Spaghetti: The quintessential partner, serving these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti makes for a timeless Italian meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and aromatic side dish, perfect for adding a fresh touch to any meal. The combination of lime juice and cilantro brings a bright flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
• Caprese Salad: A simple Italian salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a light and flavorful side that pairs beautifully with Italian cuisine.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a comforting base, ideal for those looking for an alternative to pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, garlic bread adds a crispy, flavorful side.

Classic Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

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