Italian-Style Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce

Servings: 3–4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 400 g (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning

• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup water or beef stock

For Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Crusty bread or baguette slices

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Instructions

1. Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 1–2 minutes until soft.
Add ground meat, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix or meatballs will be tough).

2. Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs and place them on a plate.

3. Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 6–8 minutes total).
They don’t need to be fully cooked yet. Remove and set aside.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In the same pan, add olive oil if needed.
Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, basil, chili flakes, and water/stock.

5. Simmer

Return meatballs to the sauce.
Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

6. Finish & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

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Result

Tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich, glossy tomato sauce with deep savory flavor — perfect for dipping bread or serving over pasta 🔥🍞