Meat Balls In Sauce For Spaghetti
Juicy meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, infused with garlic, basil, and parsley, perfect for hearty family dinners over spaghetti with Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, minced garlic, crumbled basil, minced parsley, beaten egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly and shape into 1 1/2-inch diameter balls.
- Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs lightly on all sides.
- Drain off the fat from the pan.
- Add tomato sauce to the pan, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti and pass grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese directly into the meat mixture. If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones; just double the amount. If you like a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Lasagna Toss.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and sauce over your favorite spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a complete meal. For a twist, try pairing with Henry'S Spaghetti Sauce for additional depth of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, covered, in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls In Sauce For Spaghetti contains roughly 2084 calories, with 39g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with meatballs in sauce?
Meatballs in sauce are delicious served over spaghetti, but you can also try them with rice, polenta, or even in a sub sandwich. Fresh parsley or basil as a garnish adds a nice touch and complements the dish well.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
To ensure the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can cut one open to check that it is no longer pink in the center.
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).