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Classic Italian Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Tender, juicy Italian-style meatballs simmered slowly in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for serving with pasta or crusty bread.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 500 g ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 800 g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dried basil

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for 2 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently until combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same pan, sauté onion until soft and translucent.
  6. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and basil.
  7. Return meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
  8. Serve hot with pasta or bread.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender.
  • You can bake meatballs at 200°C for 15 minutes before adding to sauce.
  • Sauce tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg