🍝 Juicy Homemade Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce – A Family Comfort Food Favorite
Looking for a cozy, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table? These succulent homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce are the perfect comfort dish. Whether served over spaghetti, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy white rice, this recipe is guaranteed to please every palate.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef (preferably chuck or round)
- 1 medium onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed dry bread)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for frying)
Optional Tomato Sauce (Recommended):
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
👨‍🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and optional spices like oregano and sweet paprika.
Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Lightly grease your hands with a bit of oil or water to prevent sticking. Roll the mixture into uniform balls—about the size of a tablespoon each—to ensure even cooking. A cookie scoop or tablespoon can help keep them consistent.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them on all sides until browned, about 6–8 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
4. Simmer in Tomato Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
Remove the meatballs and set aside. In the same pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, then gently return the meatballs to the pan. Cover and let simmer for another 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and infused with the sauce’s flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
These juicy meatballs pair beautifully with:
- Spaghetti or other pasta
- Steamed white rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread for dipping in the sauce
Top with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
âś… Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Homemade and Heartwarming: A comforting, nostalgic dish perfect for family dinners.
- Versatile: Easily adapted with different herbs, proteins (like turkey or pork), or sauces.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make in advance and freeze for future easy meals.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- Tender Texture: Don’t overwork the meat—mix just until combined to keep meatballs soft.
- Even Cooking: Uniform sizes help meatballs cook evenly.
- Freeze It: Shape and freeze uncooked meatballs for quick weeknight meals.
🌟 Conclusion
These homemade meatballs are more than just a recipe—they’re a warm hug on a plate. Packed with flavor and cooked to perfection in a homemade tomato sauce, they’re a timeless classic that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
