Ultimate Sunday Sauce with Meatballs and Sausage
Indulge in the rich flavors of Sunday Sauce with Meatballs and Sausage, a classic Italian comfort food. This slow-simmered tomato sauce is infused with the savory goodness of tender meatballs and flavorful Italian sausage. Perfect for serving over pasta, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s also freezer-friendly for easy meal prep. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan makes every bite unforgettable. Treat your loved ones to this timeless recipe for a cozy and delicious dinner!
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, diced
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
4 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 2-3 teaspoons dried basil)
For the Meatballs:
2 eggs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef
For the Sausage:
1 pound Italian sausage links (hot, mild, or sweet)
Instructions:
Prepare the Sauce:
1. Heat olive oil in a large 8-quart pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté until golden brown and tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in dried oregano.
5. Bring to a simmer, partially cover with a lid, and let it cook gently while preparing the meatballs and sausage.
Prepare the Meatballs and Sausage:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and black pepper until combined.
3. Add ground beef and mix thoroughly. Shape into meatballs about 1½–2 inches in diameter.
4. Arrange meatballs on a rimmed baking sheet. Add sausage links around the meatballs.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Simmer and Serve:
1. Transfer baked meatballs and sausages into the simmering sauce using tongs. For sausages, slice in half before adding, if desired.
2. Continue simmering on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add fresh basil during the last 10 minutes for a burst of flavor.
3. Serve over pasta, polenta, or as a hearty main dish. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for the ultimate presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich Flavor: Slow-simmered sauce infused with savory meatballs and sausage.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe freezes perfectly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: A comforting Italian classic that brings everyone to the table.
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