Meatballs and Marinara

Meatballs and Marinara

This easy, delicious recipe features ground beef and Italian sausage meatballs that are perfectly seasoned and can be made mild or hot. Then, I make a simple, traditional marinara sauce to bathe those juicy meatballs in. When it’s all said and done. you’ve got a meaty, saucy dish that’s super tasty and so versatile. Use it for spaghetti and meatballs, a twist on lasagna, or as sub sandwiches. There’s so much you can do with it, and it always works.

Why You’ll Love These Meatballs and Marinara

• They’re flavorful, tender, and delicious.
• They’re easy to make and can be used with spaghetti, as meatballs sandwiches, or as an appetizer.
• And, they’re homemade, which makes them even more delicious.

Tips

• To ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, mix your meatballs by hand.
• Always wash your hands, workstation, and any utensils or dishes after handling raw meat.
• Be sure you stir your sauce frequently to prevent burning.

Variations

• You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey if you like.
• Try adding a little sugar to the marinara for a sweeter version.
• If you’re pressed for time, you can use frozen Italian meatballs.

Recipe FAQ

What is a good side to go with meatballs?

• Mashed potatoes
• Buttered noodles
• Green beans
• Rice
• Roasted vegetables
• Caesar salad
• Boiled potatoes
• Garlic bread

What do you eat with marinara meatballs?

You can use these marinara meatballs to make:

• Spaghetti and meatballs
• Lasagna and meatballs
• Meatball subs
• Meatball bakes

When are meatballs done?

Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Checking the temperature is the best and safest method to use.

Will meatballs cook in sauce?

Only if they’re pre-cooked. Frozen, pre-cooked meatballs can be cooked directly in sauce. Raw meatballs should be pan-fried or baked before putting them in the sauce. This avoids both a greasy sauce and the meatballs breaking apart.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

You sure can. The Italian sausage and seasonings used in the meatballs will keep the flavor nice and bold.

How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze Meatballs and Marinara

Store these meatballs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, place the refrigerated or frozen meatballs and marinara in a pot and heat over medium-low heat until hot.

Meatballs and Marinara Ingredients

You’ll only need simple, basic ingredients to make these delicious meatballs. You’ll find everything you need easily at your local grocery store.

• Lean ground beef
• Italian sausage, hot or mild
• Onions, diced
• Cloves garlic, minced
• Panko bread crumbs
• Large egg
• Milk
• Parsley
• Dried oregano & basil
• Salt & black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Tomato sauce
• Tomato paste

How to Make Meatballs and Marinara

Making this recipe is a breeze. The meatballs are baked, so there’s no frying or messy cleanup. It only takes a few minutes and a few simple steps.

Step 1: Make the Marinara

Combine all the marinara ingredients in a large Dutch oven. Cover and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

Add all the meatball ingredients to a large bowl and mix with your hands until completely combined. Then, roll the meat mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Place the baked meatballs in the marinara sauce and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes. Serve however you like and enjoy!

Try These Delicious Meatballs and Marinara Today

This easy, delicious meatballs and marinara recipe is loaded with authentic Italian flavor, not work. The meatballs are baked, so there’s no messy cleanup, and the sauce is incredibly simple to make. From start to finish, it only takes about an hour, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious bowl of meatballs that everyone loves. Give this recipe a try, and I know you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

More Delicious Italian Recipes You’ll Enjoy

Lasagna Soup – This delicious and hearty soup has all the classic flavors we love in lasagna but made into a soup. YUM!

Creamy Tortellini Bake – This scrumptious comfort food recipe is made with two types of sauce, a creamy white Parmesan sauce and a meat sauce, cheese tortellini and shredded mozzarella cheese. Absolutely delicious.

Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta – One of the best pasta recipe you can make and definitely one of our favorites. Loaded with Italian sausage, onions, garlic, seasoned perfectly, diced tomatoes, pasta, and lots of mozzarella cheese.

And, here is a delicious and hearty Italian Sausage Penne Casserole from our other blog, Great Grub, Delicious Treats, that you are sure to enjoy as well.