Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce is a dish that warms the heart and soul. With each tender meatball simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is a culinary journey into the heart of Italy. The combination of ground beef and Italian turkey sausage creates a savory flavor profile, while the inclusion of fresh herbs and spices elevates this dish to a new level. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends, this dish promises to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting classic!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
There are countless reasons to adore this Italian meatballs tomato sauce. Here are just a few:
- Rich, savory flavors that are sure to please everyone.
- Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients found in your pantry.
- Enjoyable as a standalone dish or served over pasta.
- Versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences.
- Ideal for meal prep, providing delicious leftovers.
- This traditional Italian meatballs dish is gluten-free!
- It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Ingredients for Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
Gather these items:
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 3/4 medium onion (finely diced)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 medium onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 3/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound ground 90/10 beef
- 1 pound ground Italian turkey sausage
How to Make Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Set the slow cooker to low. Add both cans of crushed tomatoes, diced onion, bay leaf, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir briefly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow the mixture to stand briefly so the breadcrumbs can fully absorb the liquid.
- Step 3: To the breadcrumb mixture, add the minced garlic, finely diced onion, chopped parsley, black pepper, kosher salt, dried oregano, shredded cheese, and egg. Mix with a fork to incorporate.
- Step 4: Add the ground beef and Italian turkey sausage. Using clean hands, mix gently until all ingredients are blended without overworking the meat.
- Step 5: Keep hands slightly wet to prevent sticking. Form the meat mixture into balls approximately 1 tablespoon in size—slightly smaller than a golf ball. Place each formed meatball directly into the sauce.
- Step 6: If some meatballs are not fully submerged, they will settle during cooking.
- Step 7: Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Step 8: Cook on high for approximately 5 hours or on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Step 9: Serve the Italian meatballs in tomato sauce over pasta, on a hoagie roll, or as a standalone appetizer.
- Step 10: If a thicker sauce is desired, transfer the tomato sauce to a skillet and simmer over medium-high heat until the preferred consistency is reached.
- Step 11: If fat accumulates on the surface, gently stir it into the sauce before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; slow cooking enhances tenderness.
- Try adding a splash of red wine for depth in the sauce.
- For a spicy kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to experiment with different meats or herbs in your meatball recipe with tomato sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
This dish can be served in various delightful ways:
- Over a bed of spaghetti for a classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe.
- In a sub sandwich topped with melted cheese for a hearty hoagie.
- As a standalone appetizer, perfect for gatherings.
How to Store and Reheat Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
To store, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, simply warm the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring it remains flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce
What’s the secret to perfect Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce?
The secret lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs and a rich sauce. Using quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and good-quality tomatoes, greatly enhances the taste.
Can I make Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for later use. Just reheat before serving for a quick, satisfying meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce?
To avoid dry meatballs, be careful not to overmix the meat. Ensure the meatballs are well-formed but not compacted. Additionally, simmer gently to prevent the sauce from burning, maintaining that rich flavor.
Variations of Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:
- For a lighter option, use turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- Try a different sauce base, like pesto or a creamy sauce, for a twist on flavor.
- Experiment with spices such as basil or thyme to create your own authentic Italian meatballs with sauce.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes section!
For a unique twist, consider trying turkey meatballs instead of traditional beef.
For a delightful side, serve with garlic butter lobster bites for a luxurious touch.
Print
Italian Meatballs Tomato Sauce: 10 Reasons to Love Them
- Total Time: 330 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow-cooked Italian meatballs in tomato sauce made with beef, Italian turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, onions, cheese, and spices for a tender, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 3/4 medium onion (finely diced)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 medium onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 3/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound ground 90/10 beef
- 1 pound ground Italian turkey sausage
Instructions
- Set the slow cooker to low. Add both cans of crushed tomatoes, diced onion, bay leaf, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir briefly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow the mixture to stand briefly so the breadcrumbs can fully absorb the liquid.
- To the breadcrumb mixture, add the minced garlic, finely diced onion, chopped parsley, black pepper, kosher salt, dried oregano, shredded cheese, and egg. Mix with a fork to incorporate.
- Add the ground beef and Italian turkey sausage. Using clean hands, mix gently until all ingredients are blended without overworking the meat.
- Keep hands slightly wet to prevent sticking. Form the meat mixture into balls approximately 1 tablespoon in size—slightly smaller than a golf ball. Place each formed meatball directly into the sauce.
- If some meatballs are not fully submerged, they will settle during cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Cook on high for approximately 5 hours or on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve the Italian meatballs in tomato sauce over pasta, on a hoagie roll, or as a standalone appetizer.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, transfer the tomato sauce to a skillet and simmer over medium-high heat until the preferred consistency is reached.
- If fat accumulates on the surface, gently stir it into the sauce before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
