Homemade sauce and meatballs

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
   • Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
   • Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Marinara Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Once the marinara sauce is ready, add the cooked meatballs back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
   • Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat through and absorb some of the flavors.
   • Serve the meatballs and marinara sauce hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
5. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your homemade meatballs with marinara sauce served over pasta, rice, or crusty bread, or on their own as a tasty appetizer or main dish!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients of both the meatballs and marinara sauce according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!