These easy homemade Italian meatballs are a real treat! They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and swimming in a rich tomato sauce that makes everything taste even better.
Honestly, who can resist a big plate of spaghetti and meatballs? I love making these for family dinners. It’s simple to whip them up and always brings smiles to the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor, but you could stick to just ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based options, like lentils or chickpeas, to make it vegetarian.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also fine if you’re avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely salty flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Any type of milk works here. If you’re dairy-free, try almond milk or oat milk. You could also use chicken broth for extra flavor.
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender?
Keeping meatballs tender is all about mixing and cooking them right. Here are some tips:
- Mix your ingredients gently – overmixing can make meatballs tough.
- Use milk to keep them moist; it really helps with tenderness.
- Brown them quickly in a hot pan, then simmer them in the sauce which keeps them juicy.
Letting them simmer in the sauce not only cooks them through but also infuses them with flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Flavorful Tomato Sauce?
Making a great tomato sauce is super simple! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. This builds a flavorful base!
- Add crushed tomatoes and season them right away with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Don’t forget that pinch of sugar – it balances the acidity of the tomatoes really well.
Let it simmer long enough to thicken, and you’ll have a delicious sauce ready to soak into your meatballs.
Easy Homemade Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, milk, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix this part; keeping it light helps the meatballs stay juicy!
2. Shape Your Meatballs:
Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to make them roughly the same size, so they cook evenly.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Cook them for about 7-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Once done, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure not to burn it.
5. Create the Tomato Sauce:
Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. If you like, add the sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes, and sprinkle in some dried basil or Italian seasoning. Season with a little salt and pepper to your taste. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the Meatballs:
Carefully add the browned meatballs back to the skillet with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened up nicely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, serve the meatballs hot, garnished with some fresh basil or parsley if you feel fancy. They’re perfect to enjoy with spaghetti, polenta, or even on warm crusty bread!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Italian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef or pork in this recipe. Just keep in mind that these options can be drier, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash of chicken broth, to keep the meatballs juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs and Sauce?
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Bake the Meatballs Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can certainly bake the meatballs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through, and then simmer them in the sauce to absorb all those flavors.
What Can I Serve with Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! You can serve them over spaghetti or other pasta, with polenta, or in a sub sandwich. A side of garlic bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully too!