Meatballs in Tomato Sauce | Akis Petretzikis

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: tomato puree

Fresh tomatoes can be healthier, while puree is often cheaper and easier to use.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: white wine

Grape juice provides flavor without alcohol, while white wine can be less expensive.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: stale bread

Oats are healthier, while stale bread can be a cost-effective alternative.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Mix the ingredients until well combined.

Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the meatballs and set aside.

In the same skillet, add canned tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, and bay leaves.

Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.

Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens