Classic Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 1 hr 10 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

These classic beef meatballs in marinara sauce are tender, flavorful, and simmered to perfection. Made with a combination of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich homemade tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a comforting dinner. Serve them over pasta, in a sandwich, or enjoy them as an appetizer.

Ingredients
    For the Meatballs:
  • 500 g ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, if pan-searing)
    • For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
    Prepare the Meatball Mixture
  1. 1
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
    2. Shape the Meatballs
  2. 2
    Using a spoon or hands, roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined tray. You should get around 18-20 meatballs. Let them rest for 10 minutes to firm up.
    3. Cook the Meatballs
  3. 3
    Pan-searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until browned (about 6-8 minutes), then transfer to a plate.Baking: Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
    4. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
  4. 4
    In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    5. Combine and Simmer
  5. 5
    Add the cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Let them simmer for another 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in fresh basil before serving.
Note
  • For extra juicy meatballs, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
  • You can store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with spaghetti, crusty bread, or in a meatball sub.
Keywords: beef meatballs, marinara sauce, homemade, Italian recipe, comfort food
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/classic-beef-meatballs-in-marinara-sauce/