Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

These Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are tender, juicy, and bursting with classic Italian flavors. Made with a blend of ground meat, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, they’re perfect for serving over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a standalone appetizer. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender meatballs – Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
• Rich, flavorful tomato sauce – Simmered with garlic, herbs, and olive oil for authentic Italian taste.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients with straightforward steps.
• Versatile – Serve with pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer.
• Freezer-friendly – Great for meal prep or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Eggs
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Milk
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Olive oil
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

Make the Meatballs

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, parsley, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
2. Form meatballs: Roll the mixture into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Simmer the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add meatballs: Place the browned meatballs into the sauce and simmer gently for 20-30 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy with pasta, crusty bread, or as an appetizer.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Meatballs – Add red pepper flakes directly into the meatball mixture for an extra kick.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs – Insert a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball before cooking.
• Turkey Meatballs – Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Herb-Loaded – Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to the meatball mixture for a deeper herb flavor.
• Low-Carb Option – Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a keto-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately or together for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.

What’s the best meat blend for Italian meatballs?

A 50/50 blend of ground beef and pork offers the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but simmer fresh tomatoes longer to break them down and develop the flavors.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and eggs, which act as binders, and avoid over-mixing the meat mixture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.

What pasta pairs best with these meatballs?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni all work well with this classic sauce.

Can I cook the meatballs directly in the sauce without frying?

Yes, but frying adds extra flavor and a nice crust. You can simmer raw meatballs directly in the sauce for a softer texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during simmering.

What can I serve with meatballs besides pasta?

Try serving with mashed potatoes, polenta, or on a hoagie roll as a meatball sub.

Can I use Parmesan alternatives?

Yes, use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or skip it altogether if preferred.

Conclusion

These Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are a classic comfort food that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Juicy meatballs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, make for the perfect family meal or crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether served with pasta, on a sandwich, or on their own, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

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