Easy Meatballs
A quick and easy recipe for Italian meatballs served with a smoky tomato sauce.
A quick and easy recipe for Italian meatballs served with a smoky tomato sauce.
- 2 eggs
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. dried oregano
- chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1.5 lb. ground beef or pork
- 1/2 cup finely-diced white onion
- 1/4 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (i prefer fire-roasted)
- Carbohydrate 3.34840839115197 g
- Cholesterol 17.3363805416667 mg
- Fat 5.95332681961034 g
- Fiber 0.214318889393955 g
- Protein 4.39747862601986 g
- Saturated Fat 2.24235682446706 g
- Serving Size 1 1 meatball (35g)
- Sodium 51.2407305292109 mg
- Sugar 3.13408950175801 g
- Trans Fat 1.48841230959289 g
- Calories 86 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine the beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, onion, Parmesan, garlic, eggs, thyme, oregano, salt and pepper in a large bowl.
- Use a potato masher or your hands to mix until even.
- Scoop out rounded tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. Set aside.
- Heat crushed tomatoes in a large, deep sauté pan (or stockpot) over medium-high heat until simmering.
- Stir in smoked paprika, season with salt and pepper, and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add meatballs in a single layer, coating with sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through. (Stovetop method)
- OR: Stir crushed tomatoes and smoked paprika in a slow cooker. Add meatballs, coating with sauce. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until tender. (Slow Cooker method)
- Remove meatballs, serve with extra sauce, and garnish as desired.
Easy Meatballs: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. These meatballs are my go-to when I need a satisfying and delicious meal on the table in under an hour. They're incredibly versatile, too – perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or dressed up for a more special occasion. The smoky tomato sauce adds a depth of flavor that elevates these simple meatballs beyond the ordinary.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. I often add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a combination of both. The possibilities are endless!
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to my schedule. On busy weeknights, I whip up the meatballs on the stovetop – it's quick, efficient, and gets dinner on the table in a flash. But when I have a little more time, I love using my slow cooker. The low and slow cooking method results in incredibly tender and flavorful meatballs, and the best part is that the slow cooker does all the work while I attend to other things. It’s a true lifesaver!
The ingredients are simple and readily available, making this recipe perfect for spontaneous dinners. I usually keep ground beef and canned crushed tomatoes on hand, so I can throw this together whenever the mood strikes. The aroma filling the kitchen as the meatballs simmer is enough to make anyone's mouth water! The combination of juicy meatballs and tangy, smoky sauce is a match made in heaven.
I often serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, but they are equally delicious with rice, polenta, or even crusty bread for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to salads, soups, and sandwiches. The versatility of this recipe is what makes it such a staple in my meal rotation.
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's about creating delicious food that my family loves. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a recipe that even beginner cooks can master. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete novice in the kitchen, give these easy meatballs a try – you won't be disappointed.
Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe offers a chance to connect with family and friends. The simple act of rolling meatballs together can be a fun activity for kids, transforming dinner prep into a family bonding experience. And who doesn't love a meal shared with loved ones?
So, there you have it – my secret weapon for weeknight dinners and beyond. Easy Meatballs, a recipe that combines convenience, flavor, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Serving Suggestions:
Here are a few ideas on how to serve your delicious Easy Meatballs:
- Classic Spaghetti: Serve the meatballs over a bed of your favorite spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is the perfect base for these savory meatballs.
- Rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice, a simple yet satisfying combination.
- Sub Sandwiches: These meatballs are also a great filling for hearty sub sandwiches.
- Salads: Add the meatballs to a fresh green salad for a protein-packed meal.
- Soup: Include them in your favorite hearty soup or stew for an added protein punch.
Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking! Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature meatball recipe.
