Why Make This Recipe
Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table without the hassle of many pots and pans. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you crave a hearty meal that brings everyone together. The juicy meatballs soak up the rich marinara sauce, making every bite delicious. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
How to Make Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Ground Chicken or Beef (Choose ground chicken for a lighter option or beef for richness.)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs can be used.)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Use freshly grated for best results.)
- 1 large Egg (Essential for binding the meatball mixture.)
- 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced (Adds aromatic flavor.)
- 1 Onion, finely chopped (Contributes sweetness and depth.)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Provides authentic Italian flavor.)
- to taste Salt and Pepper (Enhances the flavor of the meat and sauce.)
- 2 14-ounce cans Canned Diced Tomatoes (Forms the base of the marinara sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Used for sautéing onions and garlic.)
- 1 handful Fresh Basil, chopped (Enhances the marinara with freshness.)
Directions:
- Prepare your ingredients by measuring them out to streamline the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken or beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the chopped onion in the same pot until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add canned diced tomatoes and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Add chopped basil and return the meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes.
- Check the meatballs for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce
Serve these meatballs with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them as a filling in hoagie rolls for a delicious meatball sub. Top with additional Parmesan and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs in the marinara sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce
- For more flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for 15 minutes before forming them.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pot when browning the meatballs; work in batches if necessary.
Variation
You can switch up the herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. Adding red pepper flakes can give the sauce a spicy kick, while fresh oregano or thyme will add more depth. You can also try different types of cheese or breadcrumbs for varied textures and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use frozen meatballs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, making sure they are heated through and cooked to a safe internal temperature.
What can I serve with the meatballs?
They pair well with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also make meatball subs by placing them in a hoagie roll with cheese.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook. It also reheats well, making it a great meal prep option.
Print
Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful one-pot dish featuring juicy meatballs in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Chicken or Beef
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 large Egg
- 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 2 14-ounce cans Canned Diced Tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 handful Fresh Basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by measuring them out to streamline the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken or beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the chopped onion in the same pot until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add canned diced tomatoes and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Add chopped basil and return the meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes.
- Check the meatballs for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For more flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for 15 minutes before forming them. Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian