How to Make Homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Making Homemade Meatballs in Marinara may seem like a daunting task, but in reality it can be done in under an hour.  And if you're looking for a classic recipe that will please everyone, this Homemade Meatballs and Marinara Recipe is a must-try!

Growing up I remember making DOZENS of these with my grandmother.  These Homemade Meatballs in Marinara are made with simple ingredients, bursting with flavor, and are perfect for any occasion.  Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, they are sure to become a family favorite.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

INGREDEINTS:

For this simple Homemade Meatballs in Marinara recipe you are going to need a few simple ingredients you may already have on hand.  

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb. Ground Beef
• 1/2 c. Bread Crumbs
• 1/2 c. Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 1/4 c. milk or heavy cream
• 1 Egg
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tbsp. Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 c. Brown Sugar
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 Onion, diced
• 2-4 Cloves of Garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1 32 oz. can of Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 lb. of your favorite Pasta
  
  

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Making the Meatballs:  In a bowl combine the meat, breadcrumbs, milk, parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.  Mix until well combined.  Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1/5 inches in diameter.  Place the meatballs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or the freezer for 10 minutes to set.  In a large pot, place over medium-high heat, add oil, and brown the meatballs for approximately 2 minutes on each side.  Be sure to do this in small batches and set to the side.
2. Making the Marinara Sauce:  In the same large, heat olive oil over medium heat.  Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic.  Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.  Stir in the crushed tomatoes with 1 can full of water, and add the sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.  
3. Add the Meatballs to the Sauce:  Add the meatballs to the sauce, bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes to 1 hour.  
4. Serve:  Serve the meatballs and marinara sauce over you favorite pasta, on a sub roll, or enjoy them on their own.  Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.  

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

COOKING IN THE CROCK POT:

To cook in the crockpot, add the browned meatballs and all the sauce ingredients to the crockpot.  Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-6.  Just make sure the meatballs are fully cooked and no longer pink.  You are looking for an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C.  

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Make Ahead:  Both meatballs and marinara sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.  
• Versatility:  Feel free to use all ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.  I like to do half beef, half ground pork for a more authentic flavor.  
• Breadcrumbs:  If you prefer, use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.  
• Extra Flavor:  Add a splash of red wine to a marinara sauce for extra depth of flavor.  

FAQs:

Can I bake the meatballs before adding them to the sauce?

 

Yes!  Preheat the oven to 400°F/200°C.  Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned on the outside. 

How do I make gluten-free meatballs?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs.  Ensure all other ingredients, including the marinara sauce are gluten-free.  

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce to save time.  However homemade marinara sauce offers the best flavors. 

This Homemade Meatballs and Marinara Recipe is a timeless dish that will impress your family and friends.  With its rich flavors and versatility, it's a meal that you'll turn again and again.  Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade meatballs and marinara sauce, and create memories around the dinner table.  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~