Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
These meatballs in tomato sauce are juicy, tender, and simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce for the ultimate comfort-food dinner. Made with simple pantry ingredients and easy steps, this classic recipe is perfect for weeknights, family meals, or make-ahead dinners—and it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup onion very finely minced
- Flavor Base & Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- Pantry Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix gently just until combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the Meatballs
- Roll mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs and set aside.
- Brown the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown meatballs on all sides for 6–8 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
- Simmer
- Return meatballs to the sauce.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring gently.
- Rest & Serve
- Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Gentle simmering keeps meatballs tender and juicy.
- Browning first adds depth and flavor to both the meatballs and sauce.
- Adjust seasoning at the end for best balance.