Meatballs in tomato sauce

Meatballs in tomato sauce are a classic and hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Here’s a recipe for Meatballs in Tomato Sauce:

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz/800 g) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
   • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet or plate.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

   • You can either bake or pan-fry the meatballs:
     • To Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
     • To Pan-Fry: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce:

   • While the meatballs are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Once the meatballs are cooked, gently add them to the simmering tomato sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   • Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, in a sub roll for meatball sandwiches, or alongside crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious meatballs in tomato sauce!