Classic Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce 🍅🧄
"Juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with creamy ricotta and fresh basil—this dish is Italian comfort food at its finest!" 😍✨
Ingredients 🛒
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef & pork) 🥩
1/2 cup breadcrumbs 🍞
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
1 egg 🥚
2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1/4 cup chopped parsley 🌿
1/2 tsp salt 🧂
1/2 tsp black pepper 🖤
1/2 tsp dried oregano 🍃
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying) 🫒
For the Marinara Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes 🍅
1/2 tsp dried oregano 🍃
1/2 tsp salt 🧂
1/2 tsp black pepper 🖤
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish) 🌿
For Topping (Optional):
1/2 cup ricotta cheese 🏔️
Extra grated Parmesan 🧀
Instructions 🔥
1️⃣ Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Roll into small meatballs.
2️⃣ Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Marinara Sauce:
In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4️⃣ Simmer the Meatballs:
Return the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until fully cooked and infused with flavor.
5️⃣ Serve & Garnish:
Top with dollops of ricotta, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta! 🍝✨
🔥 Pro Tip: Pair with garlic bread and a glass of red wine for a true Italian feast! 🍷🥖
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