Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a hearty and satisfying dish made with tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce. Whether served over pasta, with crusty bread, or on their own, this comforting classic is a timeless favorite for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is both rustic and elegant, offering a beautiful balance between savory meat and tangy, aromatic tomato sauce. The meatballs are flavorful and moist, while the sauce is deeply seasoned and slow-simmered for optimal taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil

For the tomato sauce:

• Crushed tomatoes or passata
• Garlic
• Onion
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil or dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
3. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
5. Return the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for another 20–25 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
6. Serve hot over pasta, polenta, or with fresh bread.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mix in ricotta or milk-soaked bread for extra moist meatballs.
• Serve with mozzarella for a cheesy meatball bake.

Storage/Reheating

Store meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This dish also freezes well — place cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes. You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then simmer them in the sauce.

What meat blend is best for tender meatballs?

A 50/50 mix of ground beef and pork provides a perfect balance of flavor and moisture.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is not too dry or too wet, and don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs, which act as binders.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen over time, making this a great make-ahead dish.

Is it necessary to brown the meatballs first?

Browning adds flavor, but you can also cook the meatballs directly in the sauce for a softer texture.

Can I use jarred marinara sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce gives you better control over flavor and freshness.

How do I prevent tough meatballs?

Do not overmix the meat mixture and avoid compacting them too tightly.

Can I freeze uncooked meatballs?

Yes. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before cooking.

What type of pasta pairs best with these meatballs?

Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine, rigatoni, or even orzo work well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your tomato products contain no gluten-based additives.

Conclusion

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a cherished dish that offers comfort, flavor, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, tucked into a sandwich, or as a main dish on its own, this recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

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