Italian Sausage and Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork for extra flavor)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil, for frying
For the Sausage and Sauce:
4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them to brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes per batch). Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Cook the Sausages:
In the same skillet, add the Italian sausages. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides (about 10-12 minutes). Once cooked, remove the sausages from the skillet and slice them into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the browned meatballs and sausage pieces. Stir gently to coat everything with the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Serve:
Spoon the Italian sausage and meatballs over your favorite pasta, polenta, or serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
💡 Tips:
Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day ahead. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Add Vegetables: You can toss in some sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version: If you like more heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Italian Sausage and Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a hearty weeknight meal. Serve it up with pasta, bread, or polenta for a complete and satisfying meal! 🍝