Creamy Meatballs in Sauce is a comforting main dish featuring tender, well-seasoned meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. It is a satisfying recipe suitable for family meals and special occasions alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines classic meatballs with a smooth and flavorful sauce that enhances every bite. The meatballs remain juicy while absorbing the richness of the sauce, making the dish both hearty and elegant. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground meat (beef, chicken, or a mixture)
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Tomato sauce
- Heavy cream
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried herbs
- Fresh basil or parsley
Directions
In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently and form into evenly sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a wide pan and brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, add tomato sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream and return the meatballs to the pan. Cover and simmer until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Ground turkey may be used for a lighter option. A spicy version can be made by adding chili flakes. Coconut cream may replace dairy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small amount of water or cream if needed. This dish may also be frozen for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a suitable alternative and reduces oil usage.
What type of meat works best?
Beef, chicken, or a mixture all work well.
Can I make the sauce thicker?
Yes, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Is this dish suitable for pasta?
Yes, it pairs very well with pasta.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance.
Does the sauce freeze well?
Yes, the sauce and meatballs freeze successfully.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, spinach or mushrooms are good additions.
How do I keep meatballs tender?
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Can milk be used instead of cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be lighter.
What herbs work best?
Basil, parsley, and oregano complement the dish well.
Conclusion
Creamy Meatballs in Sauce is a reliable and comforting recipe that combines familiar flavors with a rich, satisfying texture. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for both everyday meals and more formal dinners.
Print
Creamy Meatballs in Sauce
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender and juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix gently and shape into medium-sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sprinkle in flour, stirring for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and thyme, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use halal-certified beef to keep the dish halal.
- Chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
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