Italian Meatball Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty Italian meatball spaghetti sauce rich in tomato flavor, herbs, and savory meatballs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, fennel seed, and salt in a deep saucepan.
- Rinse tomato paste cans with water and add to the sauce.
- Add meatballs to the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until thickened to desired consistency.
- Serve over hot, cooked spaghetti with green salad and garlic bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crushed San Marzano tomatoes. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones; just double the amount for fresh. Additionally, using homemade meatballs will enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sauce over al dente spaghetti for a classic dish that's always a favorite. Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with Sunny Italy Dressing for a delightful contrast. Garlic bread is a must-have on the side to soak up the delicious sauce. This meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Meatball Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 258 calories, with 16g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (211% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), and calcium (78% of the Daily Value). At about 258 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Simmer them longer to achieve the desired sauce consistency, and remember to adjust the seasonings to taste.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use meatless meatballs or substitute them with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for protein. You can also explore vegan recipes that feature plant-based meat alternatives for a satisfying meal.
What type of meatballs should I use?
You can use homemade or store-bought meatballs. For a traditional flavor, opt for Italian-style meatballs made with beef and pork, or try chicken or turkey meatballs for a lighter option. If you need a recipe, check out Italian Shredded Beef For Sandwiches for inspiration.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).