If you’re craving something comforting and packed with flavor, this Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender meatballs made from simple yet carefully chosen ingredients are simmered in a luscious, vibrant tomato sauce that you can spoon over pasta or simply enjoy on its own. The combination of herbs, garlic, and cheese elevates every bite, making this a dish that feels both homey and special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these meatballs deliver satisfaction in every mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each bringing something special to the table—from the hearty texture of ground beef to the bright, aromatic freshness of herbs and garlic. Together they create a balanced and deeply satisfying sauce and meatball combination.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The star protein providing juicy, savory meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Help bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a savory, nutty flavor that enhances the meat.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together perfectly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a pungent, irresistible aroma.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) or dried (1 teaspoon): Brings a pop of fresh, herbal brightness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning all components evenly.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the meatballs and sautéing the onion to perfection.
- Chopped onion (1 small): Provides sweetness and a tender, savory base for the sauce.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): Forms the rich, hearty foundation of the sauce.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers classic Italian herb notes that complement the sauce.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, sweet herbal touch.
- Sugar (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Balances acidity in the tomato sauce for mellow sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To adjust seasoning at the end.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful finish to the dish.
How to Make Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender, then shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs. This small size ensures they cook through evenly and stay juicy.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Working in batches, add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning adds a beautiful color and deep flavor base to your meatballs. Once browned, remove them and set aside—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet with reserved oil and browned bits, add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. This step is vital as the onions release their natural sweetness, creating a rich flavor foundation. Then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and the optional sugar. Season with salt and pepper, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Return the browned meatballs to the sauce, making sure they’re nestled in comfortably. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the meatballs to cook thoroughly while soaking in the sauce’s flavors. The sauce will thicken beautifully, coming together as a comforting, rich coating for each meatball.
How to Serve Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness, brightening the dish visually and in flavor. A little grated Parmesan can also add a cheesy, salty punch when served.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a bed of al dente pasta, gluten-free zucchini noodles for a low-carb option, or even crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad can also round out the meal nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatballs stuffed inside toasted sub rolls with extra sauce and cheese for meatball subs. Another idea is to present them as a party appetizer on skewers, perfect for sharing alongside a tangy dipping sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, they’re ready to enjoy for easy lunches or quick dinners without losing their rich flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze fully cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, making this a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftover meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to keep the meatballs tender and the sauce from sticking or burning.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork can be delightful alternatives and will still work well in this Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe.
Do I have to brown the meatballs before simmering them in sauce?
Browning adds flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and cook them directly in the sauce. Just be gentle when turning them to avoid breaking.
Can I make the tomato sauce from scratch?
Yes! Using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs can transform the sauce into something special and fresh, but canned crushed tomatoes offer convenience without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezer meal prep?
Definitely. The meatballs and sauce freeze beautifully, giving you a ready-to-go meal that simply requires thawing and reheating.
What can I serve with these meatballs to keep the meal low carb?
Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice make excellent low-carb sides that complement the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a dish that brings smiles to the table every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delicious and hearty Ground Beef Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce, perfect for a comforting Italian main course. These tender meatballs are simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce and can be served over pasta, zucchini noodles, or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until ingredients are combined, then shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. Remove browned meatballs and set them aside.
- Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the pan and let the meatballs simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot. Ideal accompaniments include pasta, zucchini noodles, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- For variation, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a blend of beef and pork.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container.
