How To Cook Meatballs On Stove In Sauce
Meatballs simmering in a rich and flavorful sauce is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. The process of cooking meatballs on the stove in sauce is simple, but it requires a bit of finesse to get them perfectly tender and packed with flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create mouthwatering meatballs on the stove in sauce that will impress everyone at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This recipe will yield approximately 20 meatballs.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sugar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, add the torn basil leaves to the sauce for an aromatic burst of flavor.
- Serve your delicious meatballs on a bed of pasta, along with some crusty bread for dipping into the savory sauce.
There you have it – a delectable recipe for cooking meatballs on the stove in sauce. The combination of juicy meatballs and a flavorful sauce will surely please your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the dish according to your preferences. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal with your loved ones!
Do you love cooking with meat? Check out our other meat-centered recipes for more inspiration:
Happy cooking!
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FAQ:
What type of meat should I use to make meatballs?
You can use a combination of ground meats such as beef, pork, and veal. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken as well.
How do I ensure my meatballs stay moist while cooking?
To keep your meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture as it can result in a dense texture. Adding a binder such as breadcrumbs or soaked bread, combined with eggs, can help retain moisture during the cooking process.
Should I fry or bake the meatballs before cooking them in sauce?
While baking meatballs can be a healthier option, frying them first can add a delicious crust and enhance the flavor. If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can fry them in a bit of oil before adding them to the sauce. Otherwise, you can skip the frying step and directly cook them in the sauce.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart while cooking?
To prevent meatballs from falling apart, make sure to gently form the mixture into evenly-sized balls without compacting them too tightly. Additionally, allowing the meatballs to rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape.
What type of sauce works best for cooking meatballs on the stove?
Tomato-based sauces such as marinara, arrabbiata, or even a homemade tomato sauce work best for cooking meatballs on the stove. The acidity in the tomatoes helps tenderize the meatballs while infusing them with rich flavors.
How long should I cook the meatballs in the sauce on the stove?
The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your meatballs and the desired level of doneness. In general, simmering the meatballs in the sauce on low-medium heat for about 20 to 30 minutes should be sufficient. However, it’s always best to check for doneness by cutting into a meatball to ensure it is cooked through.
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