Mouthwatering Juicy Baked Meatballs In Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Mouthwatering Juicy Baked Meatballs in Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

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Mouthwatering Juicy Baked Meatballs in Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

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Discover the best marinara sauce recipe paired with juicy baked meatballs. Easy, authentic, and perfect for pasta nights. Try this homemade marinara sauce recipe today!

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Introduction (with Hook)

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This juicy baked meatballs in homemade marinara sauce recipe is a game-changer! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy family meal, this recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs with the best marinara sauce recipe you’ll ever try. In this post, you’ll learn how to make a simple marinara sauce recipe from scratch, customize it to your taste, and pair it with perfectly baked meatballs. Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

1. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
2. Prep & Cook Time
3. Main Ingredients
4. Customizations & Substitutes
5. Detailed Ingredients List
6. Step-by-Step Instructions
7. Tips & Tricks
8. Variations & Serving Suggestions
9. FAQ Section

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This Italian marinara sauce recipe is rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Use the marinara sauce for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
• Healthy Option: Baked meatballs are a lighter alternative to frying without compromising on taste.

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Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Main Ingredients

For the Marinara Sauce:

• Fresh tomatoes (or canned San Marzano tomatoes)
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Onion
• Fresh basil
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef and pork (or turkey for a leaner option)
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Garlic and parsley

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Customizations & Substitutes

• Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes for convenience or fresh tomatoes for a fresh tomato marinara sauce recipe.
• Meat: Swap beef and pork for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Herbs: Add oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
• Spice: Include red pepper flakes for a spicy marinara sauce recipe.

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Detailed Ingredients List

Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (or 28 oz canned tomatoes)
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add fresh basil and blend (optional) for a smooth texture.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Add baked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Serve over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or as a standalone dish.

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Tips & Tricks

• Tomato Prep: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel them for a smoother sauce.
• Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat meatballs and sauce on the stovetop over low heat.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for depth.

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Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Pasta Pairing: Serve with spaghetti, penne, or zoodles for a low-carb option.
• Cheesy Twist: Top with mozzarella and broil for a cheesy baked dish.
• Canning: Follow a marinara sauce canning recipe to preserve the sauce for later use.
• Protein Swap: Use chicken or turkey meatballs for a leaner dish.

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FAQ Section

What’s the best type of tomato for marinara sauce?

San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweet, low-acid flavor.

Can I freeze marinara sauce?

Yes, marinara sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! But homemade marinara sauce offers unmatched freshness and flavor.

What’s the secret to juicy meatballs?

Using a mix of beef and pork, along with breadcrumbs and egg, ensures tender, juicy meatballs.

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