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Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
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This Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce recipe features juicy, tender meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce infused with fresh herbs and traditional Italian seasonings. It’s a comforting and versatile dish perfect for pasta nights, family dinners, or sandwiches, offering authentic Italian taste with simple, accessible ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and pork with bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, grated onion, eggs, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined to avoid dense meatballs.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into even-sized balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Avoid packing too tightly to keep them tender after cooking.
  3. Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden but not fully cooked through. This adds flavor and seals in the juices.
  4. Make the Tomato Sauce: In a large saucepan, sauté minced garlic and onion in olive oil until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and additional Italian seasoning. Simmer gently to develop a rich, deep flavor.
  5. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Carefully add the browned meatballs into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
  6. Final Touches: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a vibrant touch.

Notes

  • Use a meat blend: Combining beef and pork offers the best flavor and texture balance.
  • Don’t overmix: Mixing meat too much can make meatballs tough rather than tender.
  • Brown before simmering: Searing develops a flavor-packed crust that enhances the final dish.
  • Simmer gently: Keep sauce at a low simmer to prevent meatballs from drying out.
  • Let the meatballs rest: After cooking, allow them to sit for a few minutes for juicier bites.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian meatballs, tomato sauce, comfort food, family dinner, pasta sauce, homemade meatballs, Italian cuisine

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/italian-meatballs-with-tomato-sauce/