Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce, bursting with herbs and spices that make each bite pure bliss. Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti, with a crusty piece of garlic bread, or just on its own, this dish is the ultimate in cozy, soul-satisfying comfort food. The kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Trust me, it’s a game-changer, and once you taste it, you’ll be hooked.

Making meatballs from scratch doesn’t have to be intimidating, and this recipe proves it. The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and cooked until golden brown, then slowly simmered in a tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s an easy recipe, but one that feels indulgent enough for a special dinner. So, if you’re in the mood for something hearty and homey, you’ve just found your new favorite dish.

Why You’ll Love Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

This dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a little piece of Italy on your plate. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Flavor Explosion

The combination of tender meatballs and the luscious tomato sauce is simply irresistible. With garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan, every bite is full of flavor.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s nothing like a plate of juicy meatballs in rich tomato sauce to make you feel at home. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that works for any occasion.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to pull off this dish. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious homemade meal on the table in no time.

Versatile

While classic spaghetti and meatballs is a winning combo, you can serve these meatballs in so many ways—on a sub roll for a sandwich, over rice, or with a side of roasted veggies. The possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a dinner party, or just yourself (no judgment!), this recipe is sure to please everyone. It’s hearty, flavorful, and universally loved.

Ingredients in Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Let’s break down what goes into these irresistible meatballs and their tangy tomato sauce. These ingredients are simple but create a meal that tastes anything but basic.

Ground Beef and Pork

A combination of ground beef and pork gives the meatballs the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. You can also use just one type of meat if you prefer, but this combo is a classic.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together and give them a light, airy texture. They also soak up the flavors of the sauce, making each bite even more delicious.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan adds a touch of nuttiness and saltiness that takes the meatballs to the next level.

Eggs

Eggs help bind the ingredients together and keep the meatballs nice and tender.

Garlic

Garlic is a must in any Italian dish, and here, it adds a punch of aromatic flavor that blends perfectly with the meatballs.

Fresh Parsley

Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal freshness to the meatballs. Plus, it’s great for garnish!

Tomato Sauce

The star of the show! A good-quality tomato sauce (or homemade, if you’re feeling ambitious) is key to getting that rich, flavorful base.

Olive Oil

For frying the meatballs to a golden brown. Olive oil adds a light, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Salt and Pepper

To season the meatballs and sauce, bringing out all the flavors. Simple but important!

Dried Oregano and Basil

These classic Italian herbs are essential in creating the fragrant, flavorful sauce that coats the meatballs. They add warmth and earthiness that tie the whole dish together.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful, comforting dish. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds!

Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-2 inches in diameter. You should get about 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size. Roll them gently to avoid packing them too tightly, ensuring they stay tender.

Brown the Meatballs

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally. The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, just nicely browned.

Simmer in Tomato Sauce

Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a pot with your tomato sauce. Add the dried oregano and basil, then bring the sauce to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they’re fully cooked and the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are tender and fully cooked through, remove them from the sauce. Serve the meatballs with the sauce over spaghetti, rice, or on their own. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan for extra flavor and color.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Varies based on ingredients (see recipe card)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

While this dish is absolutely delicious on its own, there are a few great ways to serve it to really elevate the meal:

Over Spaghetti

Classic spaghetti and meatballs—need I say more? This is the iconic pairing and for good reason. The tender meatballs soak up all that rich, herby tomato sauce, creating the perfect bite every time.

On a Sub Roll

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on a soft sub roll with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty, comforting sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

With Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is always a hit with Italian dishes. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!

With a Side Salad

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the meatballs and sauce. It’s a fresh, light addition to the meal.

Over Rice or Polenta

If you want a lighter option, serve the meatballs over rice or creamy polenta. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.

Additional Tips

Use Lean Meat

For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef and pork. The meatballs will still be flavorful but lighter in fat.

Add Veggies to the Sauce

For extra nutrition, try adding some diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the tomato sauce as it simmers. The veggies will absorb the sauce’s flavors and make the dish even more hearty.

Freeze for Later

This recipe makes great leftovers and can easily be frozen for later use. Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Customize the Sauce

Feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding a splash of red wine, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey works well, though the meatballs will be a bit lighter. You can also try ground chicken for a similar result.

Q2: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q3: How do I know when the meatballs are done?
A3: The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are no longer pink in the center.

Q4: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs after they’ve been browned but before they’ve been simmered in the sauce. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw them and simmer in the sauce.

Q5: What can I serve this dish with besides spaghetti?
A5: Try it with rice, polenta, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides.

Conclusion

Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and full of rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something delicious, these meatballs are sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a plate of homemade Italian goodness. Buon appetito!

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