If you have been searching for a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining juicy, tender meatballs made from a mix of ground beef and pork with a rich, fragrant tomato sauce bursting with herbs, every bite delivers a classic taste of Italy. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal that will instantly become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays a vital role from adding savory depth to providing the perfect texture and color in your final dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring your meatballs stay juicy.
- 1 lb ground pork: Brings extra flavor and tenderness to balance the beef.
- 1 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed): Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them light.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a sharp, salty note for authentic Italian flavor.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers an aromatic punch that enhances both meatballs and sauce.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture inside the meatballs.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for highlighting and balancing flavors throughout.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For browning the meatballs, creating a lovely crust.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: For the tomato sauce, providing a tasty base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant depth to the sauce.
- 28 oz crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or high-quality canned plum tomatoes): The heart of the sauce, offering sweetness and acidity.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Brings freshness and herbaceous notes.
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped: Adds earthy, aromatic flavors that define Italian cuisine.
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes: For those who love a subtle, spicy kick.
How to Make Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef and pork in a large bowl with the bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. The key here is to mix gently but thoroughly—overworking can make the meatballs tough. This blend promises tender, flavorful meatballs every time.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches across. Keeping them uniform not only helps them cook evenly but also makes them look absolutely appetizing when served. Place them on a tray ready for the next step.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown them on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes. This step develops a beautiful crust, sealing in juices and adding a deep, savory flavor to the meatballs that you’ll notice in every bite.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté the additional chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with fresh basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and if you like, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let this sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
Step 5: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Gently nestle the browned meatballs into the tomato sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes. This simmering process lets the meatballs soak up the delicious sauce while cooking through completely, resulting in tender, flavorful morsels that are bursting with Italian goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these tender meatballs hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Whether you pair them with pasta, vegetables, or tuck them into a crusty roll, this Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe promises a truly satisfying meal.
How to Serve Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your dish from homey to restaurant-quality. Freshly chopped basil or parsley not only adds vibrant color but also a fresh herbaceous aroma. Don’t forget an extra dusting of Parmesan; it adds a lovely salty finish that complements the savory meatballs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic spaghetti or your favorite pasta to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed vegetables like green beans or sautéed spinach. Garlic bread on the side also adds a delightful crunch and makes sure none of that luscious tomato sauce goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the meatballs as sliders with melted mozzarella and fresh basil on mini buns. You can also make a hearty meatball sub with melted provolone cheese and a drizzle of sauce. For a party, arrange the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks, perfect for easy sharing and dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a convenient and delicious meal ready to enjoy on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze the meatballs and sauce together or separately. Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and the meatballs moist. Adding a splash of water or broth can help if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use only beef or pork for the meatballs?
Absolutely! While the combination of beef and pork adds great flavor and texture, you can use just one type of meat if that’s what you have. Just note that pork tends to make the meatballs a bit more tender and juicy.
What type of breadcrumbs work best for this recipe?
Traditional plain breadcrumbs work wonderfully, but you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Panko breadcrumbs are a bit lighter and crispier but may alter the texture slightly.
Can I make the meatballs vegan or vegetarian?
This specific Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe relies on meat, but you can use plant-based meat substitutes or lentils with similar seasoning if you want a vegan-friendly version. Just keep in mind cooking times and texture differences.
How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart?
Be sure to mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat mixture. Using eggs and breadcrumbs as binders helps keep the balls together. Also, browning them before simmering helps create a crust that holds the meatballs intact.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Adding a pinch or two of red pepper flakes in the sauce or mixing some finely chopped chili peppers into the meatball mixture will give the dish a nice spicy kick without overpowering the classic flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that’s both approachable and full of comforting Italian flavor. Once you experience the tender, juicy meatballs swimming in that luscious sauce, you’ll understand why it’s a kitchen favorite. I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try — it’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become one of your go-to dishes for years to come.
Print
Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Classic Italian Meatballs simmered in a rich and flavorful homemade tomato sauce. Made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, these tender meatballs are browned to perfection before being cooked in a robust San Marzano tomato sauce. Perfectly served over pasta, with vegetables, or inside a sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Tomato Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or high-quality canned plum tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray ready for cooking.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, then add fresh basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up the sauce and cook through completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil and extra grated Parmesan, if desired. Pair with pasta, vegetables, or enjoy in sandwiches.
Notes
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs if you need to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the texture tender.
- You can substitute the pork with all beef if preferred.
- For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Leftover meatballs and sauce refrigerate well for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- For added moisture, soak bread crumbs in a little milk before mixing into the meat.
