For more comforting sauces, also try our roasted cherry tomato sauce, easy homemade spaghetti sauce, or easy everyday pesto. We use simple methods and simple ingredients to make them, too. We start by adding some olive oil and garlic to a pan, followed by the other sauce ingredients. While it simmers, we use our hands to mix and roll the meatballs. Then we gently add them into the sauce and let it all simmer until the meatballs are cooked through. It’s a dish that freezes really well, so while you’re at it, make a double batch; You’ll thank yourself later! Leftovers taste great warmed up, or tucked into a meatball sub or sandwich for lunch on the go. It’s easy enough for weeknights and the whole family will love this straightforward take on traditional Italian meatballs in tomato sauce! Here’s what you’ll need for the tasty tomato sauce:
Garlic sauteed in olive oil Italian seasoning – we use our homemade Italian seasoning blend but you can use store-bought or a mix of a few Italian herbs like oregano, parsley, and thyme. Whole tomatoes – whole tomatoes give this sauce a nice thick texture. Honey – to add a bit of sweetness and balance out the acidity from the tomatoes. Salt + pepper
Ground beef – we use lean ground beef which has less fat but still keeps these meatballs flavorful and juicy. Egg – works as a binder to keep everything together. Breadcrumbs, quick oats, or almond flour – all three work great for softening the meatballs. We find that quick oats make the softest meatballs, so they’re our favorite to use. Chicken stock – we usually have some of our homemade chicken stock in the freezer, but you can use store-bought. Grated onion – grating the onion is a secret trick we use for meatballs. Grating it into tiny pieces helps it incorporate well into the meatballs for evenly dispersed flavor. Parmesan cheese – for a bit of bold cheesy flavor. Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper – our homemade Italian seasoning with a bit of salt and pepper for seasoning.
Or, pile the meatballs into a banquette for a homemade meatball sub. You can also form these into bite-sized meatballs and serve them on a platter with toothpicks for an easy party appetizer. They’re the perfect addition to any Italian-inspired dinner menu. Just don’t forget a glass of red wine to wash them down! Italian sides that pair well with meatballs in tomato sauce
Bacon Kale Caesar Salad Green Beans with Garlic Asparagus Salad with Balsamic Glaze
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