Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Short Description

These easy Italian meatballs in tomato sauce are tender, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With a blend of classic Italian herbs and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
  • Rich and Flavorful: A perfect combination of juicy meatballs and a savory tomato sauce.
  • Versatile: Serve over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and freezer storage.
  • Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce 10 These easy Italian meatballs in tomato sauce are tender, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With a blend of classic Italian herbs and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week.


Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

  • Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Egg
  • Garlic, minced
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • Canned crushed tomatoes
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
  2. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into equal-sized balls (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).
  3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Simmer the meatballs: Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them cook in the sauce for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve over pasta, rice, or as desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Cheesy Meatballs: Stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella for a gooey center.
  • Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
  • Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 4-6 hours for an extra rich sauce.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce 11 These easy Italian meatballs in tomato sauce are tender, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With a blend of classic Italian herbs and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week.


FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

What can I serve with Italian meatballs?

Pasta, crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can form the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

How do I keep my meatballs tender?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, and use a mix of meats like beef and pork for extra juiciness.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce enhances the flavor and freshness of the dish.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer or add a small amount of tomato paste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to break them down into a sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the juicy meatballs and flavorful sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots make great additions.

What’s the best pasta to serve with meatballs?

Spaghetti is a classic choice, but any pasta works well!

Conclusion

These easy Italian meatballs in tomato sauce are a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or on their own, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy this homemade classic with your favorite sides and savor every bite!

Print
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Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Easy Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (about 1618 meatballs) 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

These tender and juicy Italian meatballs are packed with flavor and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving over pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer. A simple, homemade meal the whole family will love!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
  • For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  • Make the Meatballs – In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and milk. Stir until just combined.
  • Form the Meatballs – Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 16-18 meatballs).
  • Cook the Meatballs – Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce – In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Simmer the Sauce – Pour in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add Meatballs to Sauce – Return the meatballs to the pan, spooning sauce over them. Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
  • Serve – Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve over spaghetti, in a sandwich, or as a side.

Notes

  • Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra juicy meatballs.
  • Baking option: Instead of frying, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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