Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce

Meatballs are a versatile staple that can elevate any meal, from hearty spaghetti to tasty subs. This classic recipe features rich, savory flavors with a hint of spice, perfectly paired with a fragrant tomato basil sauce. The best part? You can prepare a batch ahead and freeze them for future culinary adventures.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

🥩 3 pounds ground beef

🥚 1 egg

🧅 1 large onion, grated

🧄 5 cloves of garlic, minced

🌿 1 cup chopped parsley

🧀 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated

🍞 1 cup plain or Italian style breadcrumbs

🥛 4 tablespoons milk

🌶️ 1 teaspoon black pepper

🧂 1 tablespoon salt

🌶️ 1 teaspoon paprika

🌶️ 1 teaspoon chili flakes, or to taste

🫒 4 tablespoons oil (for searing)

For the Sauce:

🧅 1 medium onion, chopped

🧄 3 cloves of garlic, minced

🍅 2 (28oz) cans of crushed tomatoes

🧂 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

🍃 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

🌿 Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1- Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, black pepper, salt, paprika, and chili flakes.

• Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated.

• Form the mixture into meatballs, sizing them according to your preference.

2- Cook the Meatballs:

• Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.

• Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

• Sear the meatballs on all sides until they are browned. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

3- Make the Sauce:

• In the same pan, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a couple of minutes until softened.

• Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir to combine.

• Return the meatballs to the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.

• Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4- Finish and Serve:

• Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and garnish with fresh basil.

• Serve the meatballs hot, alongside your choice of pasta, bread, or as a stand-alone dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings

Calories (per serving): Approximately 450

Nutrition (per serving): 28g protein, 25g fat, 20g carbohydrates

Equipment: Large mixing bowl, large pan/skillet, spatula, measuring cups and spoons

Cooking Tips

• For consistent meatballs, use a scoop or measure out equal portions before rolling.

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Meatballs in Tomato Sauce