simple meatball sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best simple meatball sauce recipe

I’ve been making this simple meatball sauce recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. My kids love helping me mix the sauce ingredients together, and my husband appreciates how quickly it comes together on a weeknight.

We like to serve it over pasta, but it’s also great with meatballs or as a dipping sauce for bread. The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy – we use lean ground turkey and skip the added sugars found in many commercial sauces. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick dinner or a special event.

I’ve even used it as a base for other sauces, like adding some diced veggies for extra nutrition or using different spices for a unique flavor. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let the sauce simmer slowly on the stovetop. This allows all the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, velvety texture that’s just divine.

I’ve experimented with different cooking techniques over the years, but this method never fails to impress. I’ve served this sauce at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a topping for pizza night – it’s always a hit! And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.

Simple Meatball Sauce

4.8 from 1467 votes

A classic Italian-inspired dish featuring tender meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
1/2 cup beef broth

For Garnish

Fresh basil leaves
Additional grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
4Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
6Form the meat mixture into meatballs about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
7Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
8Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
9Remove from the oven and set aside.
10While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
11In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
12Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
13Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
14Be careful not to burn the garlic.
15Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
16Pour in the red wine and beef broth.
17Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
18Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
19Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
20Gently place the cooked meatballs into the sauce, making sure they are fully submerged.
21Spoon some sauce over the top of each meatball.
22Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes, until they are heated through and have absorbed some of the sauce flavors.
23Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni.
24Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese.
25Enjoy your homemade meatball sauce immediately, while it is hot and bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Measuring cups and spoons
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can freeze leftover meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the sauce. For a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Watch Video Of How Simple Meatball Sauce Works

The best part of this recipe is how it can be served in so many ways, you can also top it with parmesan or mozzarella cheese to give it a rich flavor. It is a dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether it is a family dinner or a potluck.

It is a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, and it is a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and textures. It is a dish that is sure to become a family favorite, and it is a great way to bring people together.

I have found that it is also a great dish to take to family gatherings, as it is easy to transport and can feed a large crowd. It is a dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends and is always a good idea for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meatball Sauce

1. What type of meat should I use for the meatballs?

You can use a combination of beef and pork for the meatballs, as it gives them a nice texture and flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to use. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. You will need to peel and seed them first, and you may need to adjust the cooking time.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

5. Can I use a slow cooker to make the meatball sauce?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make the meatball sauce. Just brown the meatballs first, then add them to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

6. How can I make the meatballs more tender?

To make the meatballs more tender, you can add breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. You can also add an egg to help bind the ingredients together. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the meatballs, as this can make them tough.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce along with the onions and garlic.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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