Mini Meatball Marinara Sauce

Name: Mini Meatball Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g ground beef (80% lean); 1 egg (beaten); 1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can crushed tomatoes (796 ml); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

45 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A comforting tomato sauce with onion, garlic, and mini meatballs, perfect for an easy pasta night.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Mini Meatball Marinara Sauce is the perfect dish for a cozy pasta night at home. This comforting sauce combines the rich flavours of tomatoes, onions, and garlic, with the delightful addition of tender mini meatballs. It's a dish that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table, making it a favourite among families. What sets this version apart is its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients that are easily accessible. The sauce is robust and aromatic, while the mini meatballs add a satisfying texture and protein punch. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter.

Pro tip: Use a small ice cream scoop for uniform sizes.

Cook the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Pro tip: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Pro tip: Reduce heat to prevent garlic from burning.

Make the Marinara Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Crushed tomatoes can be substituted with whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand.

Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer over low heat. Allow it to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Pro tip: Cover partially to prevent splattering.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Serve over cooked pasta.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh garlic for the best flavour; pre-minced can be less potent.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Simmer the sauce gently to avoid burning and to develop a rich flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in mini meatball marinara sauce?

There are approximately 350 calories per serving of mini meatball marinara sauce.

Can I freeze mini meatball marinara sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to a month in an airtight container.

What type of pasta goes well with marinara sauce?

Spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice pairs well with marinara sauce.

How long does it take to cook the mini meatball marinara sauce?

The total time to cook mini meatball marinara sauce is approximately 45 minutes.

Can I make mini meatball marinara sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mini Meatball Marinara Sauce over your favourite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread to complement the rich flavours of the sauce. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to a month. It's a versatile dish that makes meal planning a breeze, ensuring you have a delicious and satisfying option ready to go at any time.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

20g

Protein

18g

Fat

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