This family secret meatballs and sauce recipe has been passed down for generations and is a beloved favorite at family gatherings. The combination of tender meatballs and flavorful sauce will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer in sauce for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta or with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Interesting Facts
The secret to tender meatballs is using a combination of breadcrumbs and milk.
The addition of sugar in the sauce helps balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Leftover meatballs and sauce can be frozen for later enjoyment.