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Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are a classic comfort food, perfect for dinner any day of the week. Made with ground beef and seasoned with Italian herbs, these tender meatballs are simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce that will leave you craving more. This recipe is easy to make, filling, and great for serving with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. A family favorite that’s perfect for a cozy meal!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

  • Make the Meatballs:
    In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
    Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

  • Cook the Meatballs:
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Working in batches, cook the meatballs for 5-6 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re browned on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

  • Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
    In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.

  • Simmer the Meatballs:
    Return the meatballs to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over each meatball, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is flavorful.

 

  • Serve:
    Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil and serve the meatballs with your favorite pasta, rice, or bread.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to make this dish leaner.

  • For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.

 

  • These meatballs freeze well, so feel free to make a big batch and store some for later use.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Searing, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs with sauce
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg