Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

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Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of meatballs in marinara sauce. This classic dish is a family favorite that can elevate a simple weeknight dinner into a delightful feast. In my own cooking adventures, I’ve found that these meatballs not only satisfy cravings but also invoke fond memories of hearty meals gathered around the dining table with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen!

What makes this recipe special

You might be wondering why you should whip up this delicious dish at home. Well, for starters, it’s incredibly quick and budget-friendly, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have. Plus, meatballs in marinara sauce are kid-approved, making it a go-to option for family dinners. The rich, savory flavors are perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or even weekend gatherings.

"These meatballs are the perfect blend of flavor and texture! My kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how easy they were to make. Definitely a new family favorite!" – A Happy Home Cook

Preparing Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Get ready to create a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat! This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, fresh herbs, and the richness of marinara sauce. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal that can impress guests or please a crowd at home.

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Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15): This balance offers great flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian): You can substitute gluten-free panko if needed.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds umami and helps bind the meatballs together.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Alternatively, use 2 tablespoons of dried parsley.
• 1 large egg: Essential for holding the meatballs together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for convenience.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Start with this amount and adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Again, begin with this and modify as preferred.
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz): Use store-bought for convenience or your homemade version if you have one.
• 1 cup beef broth: You can opt for chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
• Olive oil: For frying the meatballs until they’re beautifully browned.

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to bring it all together for a scrumptious meal:

1. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands for the best results—just don’t overmix.

2. Form the meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go.

3. Brown the meatballs: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan, cooking them in batches if necessary, until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add broth and sauce: Once browned, pour in the beef broth and marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.

5. Serve and enjoy!: Once your meatballs are fully cooked, it’s time to serve them up with your preferred accompaniments, be it pasta, bread, or a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Best ways to enjoy it

Meatballs in marinara sauce are incredibly versatile! You can serve them over spaghetti for a traditional Italian meal, pile them in sub rolls for a delectable meatball sandwich, or even enjoy them on their own with crusty garlic bread. For added freshness, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing leftovers of this dish is straightforward: let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce together for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label and date your containers!

Pro chef tips

• Don’t overwork the meat: When mixing your ingredients, just combine them until they’re mixed. Overworking can lead to dense meatballs.
• Chill before cooking: For even better results, consider chilling the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before frying. It helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Creative twists

This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity. Try swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also incorporate different cheeses, like mozzarella, for a cheesy surprise. Have fun with herbs, too! Experiment with basil, oregano, or even some chopped spinach for added nutrients.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these meatballs?

The total time to prepare and cook meatballs in marinara sauce is about 45 minutes to an hour, making it a great option for a busy weeknight.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used in place of beef without sacrificing flavor.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

You can check if the meatballs are done by inserting a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, cutting one in half to check that it’s no longer pink inside works too.

With these detailed steps and tips, you’ll create a meal that’s not just delicious but also a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

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A comforting classic dish of meatballs in rich marinara sauce that's a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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For the meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) This balance offers great flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian) Can substitute gluten-free panko if needed.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds umami and helps bind the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Alternatively, use 2 tablespoons of dried parsley.
• 1 large egg Essential for holding the meatballs together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for convenience.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt Start with this amount and adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Begin with this and modify as preferred.

For the sauce

• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz) Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if preferred.
• 1 cup beef broth Opt for chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
• Olive oil For frying the meatballs.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands for the best results—just don’t overmix.
2. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan, cooking them in batches if necessary, until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Pour in the beef broth and marinara sauce, then let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes to meld flavors and cook the meatballs through.

Serving

1. Once the meatballs are fully cooked, serve them with your preferred accompaniments, such as pasta, bread, or a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

For better results, chill the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before frying to help hold their shape. Experiment with different meats or cheeses for creative twists.

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