Introduction

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm plate of meatballs in tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this homemade meatball recipe is easy to follow, bursting with flavor, and perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick – Simple steps with everyday ingredients.
• Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein and made with fresh tomatoes.
• Family-Friendly – A dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time	Cooking Time	Total Time	Servings	Type	Cuisine	Difficulty
15 minutes	30 minutes	45 minutes	4-6 people	Main dish	Mediterranean	Easy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fats: 20g
• Fiber: 4g

Ingredients

Meatballs:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef or chicken	500g
Onion (grated)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Egg	1
Breadcrumbs (or oat flour)	2 tbsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp
Paprika	½ tsp
Cumin	½ tsp
Parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp
Olive oil	2 tbsp

Tomato Sauce:

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh tomatoes (blended)	4 large
Tomato paste	2 tbsp
Onion (chopped)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp
Paprika	½ tsp
Cumin	½ tsp
Honey (alternative to sugar)	1 tsp
Water	½ cup

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape into small meatballs (about the size of a golf ball).
4. Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tomato Sauce

1. In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté onions until soft.
2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Stir in tomato paste, followed by blended tomatoes.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin.
5. Add honey to balance acidity.
6. Pour in water and let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs

1. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce.
2. Cover and let cook for 15-20 minutes over low heat.
3. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• With Pasta – Serve over spaghetti or penne.
• With Rice – A great alternative for a gluten-free meal.
• With Bread – Pair with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

FAQs About Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

1. How do I make meatballs softer and juicier?

To keep them tender, use a mix of breadcrumbs and egg, and avoid over-mixing the meat.

2. Can I freeze meatballs in tomato sauce?

Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a little water.

3. What are the best meat alternatives for this recipe?

You can use ground chicken, turkey, or lentils for a vegetarian version.

4. What’s the best type of pan to use?

A non-stick or cast-iron pan works best for even cooking.

5. Where can I find the best quality ingredients?

You can check out Amazon for organic tomato paste, high-quality olive oil, and premium spices Amazon

Recommended Kitchen Tools

• Non-stick frying pan Amazon
• Blender for tomato sauce Amazon
• Silicone spatula for stirring Amazon

Conclusion

This easy meatballs in tomato sauce recipe is packed with flavor, high in protein, and perfect for any meal. Whether served with pasta, rice, or bread, it’s a satisfying dish that’s both simple and delicious. Try it today and enjoy a homemade classic!

Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!

For more delicious recipes click here