Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many for its savory flavors and comforting appeal. These tender meatballs are cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, making it a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

History

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce has its origins in Italy, where it is known as "polpette al sugo." This dish has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the recipe. Meatballs were originally made with a mixture of ground meat, bread crumbs, and seasonings, and were often served with a simple tomato sauce.

Ingredients

2 slices of Atkins bread, with crusts removed
0.25 cup of cream
1.5 lb (680 g) of ground chuck
0.25 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp of finely chopped fresh parsley
1 egg yolk
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
0.75 tsp of salt, divided
0.5 tsp of ground black pepper
2 tbsp of olive oil
1 (8 oz (227 g)) jar of low-carb marinara sauce
1 tbsp of minced fresh basil leaves or 1 tsp dried

How to prepare

In a large bowl, soak the bread in cream until it becomes soft.
Add ground chuck, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg yolk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 10 minutes.
Transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels.
Wipe out the skillet.
Add tomato sauce and basil to the skillet.
Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the meatballs and cook on low heat for 5 minutes until heated through.

Variations

Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the tomato sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck for a lighter version of the dish.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the meatballs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the bread in cream helps to keep the meatballs moist and tender.

- Be sure to mix the meatball mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.

- Cooking the meatballs in the tomato sauce allows them to absorb the flavors of the sauce, making them even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce can be served over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. They can also be enjoyed on their own with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the outside.

- Simmering the meatballs in the tomato sauce allows them to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of bread in place of Atkins bread for soaking in cream.

- Any type of ground meat can be used in place of ground chuck.

- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil in the tomato sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Meatballs with Tomato Sauce in a large serving dish garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also serve them in individual bowls or on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also go well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Meatballs with Tomato Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Meatballs with Tomato Sauce contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Meatballs with Tomato Sauce contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Meatballs with Tomato Sauce contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Meatballs with Tomato Sauce contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream, Parmesan cheese) and gluten (bread), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce are a delicious and satisfying dish that is rich in proteins and fats. They are a great source of essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, making them a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Meatballs with Tomato Sauce is a classic Italian dish that is loved for its savory flavors and comforting appeal. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these tender meatballs in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her small Italian village. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the delicious aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs filled the air. Maria was busy shaping small meatballs with her hands, a look of concentration on her face.

I watched in awe as she expertly fried the meatballs in a pan until they were golden brown, then poured in a rich tomato sauce and let them simmer for hours. The result was a mouthwatering dish that tasted like pure comfort and love.

Maria noticed my interest and invited me to help her with the cooking. As we worked side by side, she shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that it had been passed down through generations in her family, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

As we ate the meatballs with tomato sauce that evening, I was overwhelmed by the flavors and memories they evoked. It was a taste of Italy, of tradition, of family. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I have made Maria's meatballs with tomato sauce countless times. I have experimented with different spices and ingredients, making it my own while still honoring the original recipe. Each time I cook it, I am transported back to that sunny kitchen in Italy, the sound of laughter and the smell of garlic and tomatoes filling the air.

I have shared this recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing down not just a dish, but a piece of my heart and heritage. I hope that they will continue to make it for their loved ones, creating new memories and traditions along the way.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of bubbling tomato sauce and shaping meatballs with my hands, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me joy, comfort, and connection to my past, and for that, I will always be grateful.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a hearty, flavorful meal that will warm your soul and fill your belly, look no further than my meatballs with tomato sauce. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it down to your own loved ones, creating new traditions and memories that will last a lifetime.