Italian Sausage and Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Looking for a rich, satisfying dinner that brings authentic Italian flavor to your table? This Italian Sausage and Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe is loaded with juicy homemade meatballs, tender Italian sausage, and a bold, aromatic tomato sauce. It’s the ultimate family-style comfort food, perfect for pairing with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Homemade Meatballs:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil, for frying
For the Italian Sausage & Tomato Sauce:
4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
1. Make the Juicy Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Roll into 1 to 1 ½-inch meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs for 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown the Italian Sausages:
Using the same skillet, cook sausages over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Slice into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
3. Prepare the Savory Tomato Sauce:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil. Sauté onions for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Return meatballs and sausage to the pot. Simmer on low heat for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot over pasta, creamy polenta, or alongside toasted Italian bread.
Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Chef’s Tips:
Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day!
Add Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make a great addition.
Spice It Up: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This easy Italian dinner is a comforting blend of classic flavors perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests. The rich, hearty tomato sauce pairs beautifully with savory sausage and melt-in-your-mouth meatballs.
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