Easy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Easy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Pasta is a hearty, budget-friendly meal that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Juicy, tender meatballs simmer in a rich homemade tomato sauce and are served over perfectly cooked pasta a timeless combination that everyone loves.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an affordable dinner that tastes gourmet, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 35 minutes.
• Comforting & Flavorful – Classic Italian-style taste in every bite.
• Family Favorite – Perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinner.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Makes great leftovers for lunch or freezing.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano + basil)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried basil or parsley

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz (280 g) spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta
• Salt for boiling water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Meatballs:
   In a bowl, combine beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, herbs, and Parmesan. Mix gently and form small meatballs.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
   In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Combine:
   Return meatballs to the sauce. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until cooked through and tender.
6. Serve:
   Toss the cooked pasta with a bit of the sauce, then top with meatballs and extra sauce. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve pasta on a plate, top with 3–4 meatballs, spoon sauce generously, and finish with Parmesan.
• Side Pairings: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Leftover Uses: Make meatball subs or reheat for lunch with extra sauce.
• Beverage Pairing: Perfect with red wine or sparkling water.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture it keeps them tender.
• Add a splash of milk or water if the meatball mix feels too dense.
• Simmer sauce on low heat for richer flavor.
• Use canned whole tomatoes for a chunkier texture.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add crushed chili flakes to the sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella cubes inside the meatballs before cooking.
• Veggie Boost: Add finely grated carrots or spinach to the sauce.
• Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months (meatballs and sauce together).
• Reheat: Microwave or simmer on low heat with a splash of water.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Pasta pot

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the meatballs instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.

Can I use store-bought sauce?
Absolutely use your favorite marinara or tomato basil sauce to save time.

Can I double the batch?
Yes, these freeze beautifully, so doubling is a great idea.

Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta if needed.

Conclusion

Easy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. With tender meatballs, a rich tomato sauce, and satisfying pasta, this meal is hearty enough for dinner yet affordable enough for everyday cooking.

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