Savory Italian Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Introduction

Few dishes capture the heart and comfort of home cooking quite like classic Italian-style meatballs simmered in a rich tomato basil sauce. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for pairing with pasta, serving as an appetizer, or layering into a sub. With the right blend of spices and a slow simmer, these meatballs become a crowd-pleaser every single time.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or mix beef & pork for richer flavor)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Basil Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:

   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs may become tough.

   • Shape mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and set aside on a tray.

2. Brown the Meatballs:

   • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add meatballs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes.

   • Transfer to a plate (they will finish cooking in the sauce).

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté onions until softened, about 5 minutes.

   • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

   • Simmer sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce:

   • Return browned meatballs to the skillet.

   • Cover and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and infused with sauce flavor.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

   • Serve over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or as part of a meatball sub sandwich.

Cook’s Notes

• For extra moisture, soak breadcrumbs in 2 tbsp milk before mixing.

• These meatballs freeze well — store leftovers in sauce for up to 3 months.

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