simple meatball sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple meatball sauce recipe
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The Best simple meatball sauce recipe

I’ve been making this simple meatball sauce recipe for years, and it’s a staple in my household. It’s one of those classic Italian dishes that never goes out of style. My kids love helping me make the meatballs, and they always get excited when they see the finished product on the table.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I like to think of it as a comforting hug in a bowl, and everyone in my family agrees.

The secret to this recipe lies in the balance of flavors – just the right amount of sweetness, saltiness, and acidity. It’s a delicate balance that makes all the difference. When I first started making this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together.

Now, I can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes on a busy day. This sauce is also incredibly versatile – you can serve it with pasta, meatballs, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. My family loves it when I serve it over zucchini noodles or with some crusty garlic bread on the side.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how well it stores – you can easily make a big batch and freeze it for later use. Just thaw it out when you’re ready for a quick and delicious meal. The health benefits of this recipe are another reason why I love it so much – using ground beef instead of sausage means we’re getting more lean protein without all the extra fat.

And let’s not forget about all the veggies – we’re talking onions, garlic, carrots, celery – all packed into one delicious sauce.

Simple Meatball Sauce

Simple Meatball Sauce

4.9 from 1334 votes

This is a quick and easy tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with homemade or store-bought meatballs. It has a rich, savory flavor with a hint of garlic and herbs, and it comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
3Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
5Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it will become bitter.
6Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
7Stir everything together to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
8Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
9Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
10Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
11If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated.
12Serve the sauce over cooked meatballs and your choice of pasta or with crusty bread.

🔧Equipment

Large saucepan or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree it before serving. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Simple Meatball Sauce Works

This simple meatball sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need something quick and easy on a weeknight.

The best part is that you can customize it to your heart’s content with different herbs and spices.

And don’t even get me started on how well it stores – you can make a big batch now and enjoy it later without worrying about waste.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meatball Sauce

What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

You can use either beef or pork for this recipe – both work equally well.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

How do I store leftover meatballs?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I add other ingredients to customize this sauce?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to customize this sauce – some ideas include oregano, basil, thyme, or red pepper flakes.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?

No, this sauce is not suitable for vegetarians due to the presence of ground beef.

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