Marinara Meatballs: A Deliciously Effortless Recipe
Meatballs are a comforting and satisfying dish that many people enjoy. There’s just something about the combination of well-seasoned meat and a delicious sauce that makes it a classic go-to meal. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, marinara meatballs are the perfect choice. This recipe combines juicy meatballs with a tangy and rich marinara sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that will please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these delectable marinara meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Making the Meatballs:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a plate and set aside.
Cooking the Marinara Sauce:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking the Meatballs:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Once all the meatballs are browned, pour the marinara sauce over them in the skillet.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serving the Marinara Meatballs:
1. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the meatballs.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
3. Serve the marinara meatballs hot, either on their own or over cooked pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.
Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in these homemade marinara meatballs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The juicy meatballs smothered in the rich marinara sauce will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give this easy and delicious recipe a try and savor the comforting taste of marinara meatballs!