Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Meatballs in Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Juicy, tender meatballs are simmered in a rich, homemade marinara sauce, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Serve the meatballs over pasta, with crusty bread, or enjoy them on their own.

Appliances and Special Utensils

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Slow cooker or large pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix until well combined.

2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Bake Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.

4. Prepare Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

5. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), sugar, salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

6. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.

8. Simmer Together: Let the meatballs and sauce simmer together for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

9. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve the meatballs in marinara sauce over pasta, with crusty bread, or as desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce!