Meatballs for Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Overview:
This delightful recipe for meatballs, perfectly suited for enhancing your spaghetti sauce, is a staple in my kitchen, cherished for its simplicity and flavor. These savory meatballs, made primarily with Italian sausage, parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil, boast a rich taste profile that elevates any pasta dish. What’s more, they are incredibly easy to prepare and can be conveniently frozen for later use, making them a meal prep dream! With each serving containing only 216.7 calories and packing a protein punch of 17.6 grams, these meatballs are not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your menu.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 216.7
- Fat Content: 15.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 55.8mg
- Sodium Content: 434mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 1.5g
- Fiber Content: 0g
- Sugar Content: 0.3g
- Protein Content: 17.6g
Recipe Yield:
- 8 servings
Total Time:
- 1 hour
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Preparation Time:
- 30 minutes
Recipe Category:
- Pork
Keywords:
- Meat
- European
- Very Low Carbs
- High Protein
- High In…
- < 60 Mins
- Oven
- Easy
Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian sausage, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Form meat mixture into balls: Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into evenly sized meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This step allows for uniform cooking and ensures that each meatball is packed with flavor.
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Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
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Simmer in spaghetti sauce for a minimum of 30 minutes: Once the meatballs are baked to perfection, transfer them to a large pot or skillet containing your favorite spaghetti sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce over low heat for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the meatballs have simmered in the sauce, they are ready to be served over a bed of hot, cooked spaghetti or your pasta of choice. Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve piping hot and enjoy the deliciousness!
Tips:
- For a leaner option, you can use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties such as mozzarella or Asiago for unique flavor profiles.
- To freeze the meatballs, allow them to cool completely after baking, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- These meatballs are versatile and can be used in various dishes such as subs, sandwiches, or as appetizers with dipping sauces.
Final Thoughts:
These meatballs for spaghetti sauce are not only a time-saving solution for busy weeknights but also a crowd-pleasing favorite that will have your family coming back for seconds. With their irresistible aroma and robust flavors, they are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and elevate your pasta game to new heights!
