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.

this Recipe

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.

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