Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy meatballs with a savory crust, simmered in a bright tomato basil sauce for a comforting, one-pan meal. This italian-inspired one pot ready in about 35 minutes blends pound ground beef, pound ground pork, breadcrumbs 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 340 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: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 340 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1/2 pound ground beef, 1/4 pound ground pork, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Mix until combined, then form into 12 equal meatballs.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and sear for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Step 3: Reduce heat to medium, pour in 1/2 cup tomato sauce and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and meatballs are cooked through.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat, let rest for 3 minutes, then serve with extra basil for garnish.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil 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 Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil 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 Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil 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 Pan-Seared Beef Pork Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce?

Italian one pot 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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