Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy beef meatballs infused with aromatic herbs and simmered in a savory tomato sauce. This italian-inspired beef ready in about 50 minutes blends ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 550 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 550 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 large egg, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs and set aside on a plate.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 16 meatballs and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides but not cooked through.
  4. Step 4: Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 small chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 14 oz crushed canned tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1/2 cup water. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  6. Step 6: Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and sauce thickens.
  7. Step 7: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain.
  8. Step 8: Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti, garnishing with extra parsley if desired.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (20 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Beef Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce?

Italian beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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