Spicy homemade meatballs

Spicy Homemade Meatballs in Tomato Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Food

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a tender, juicy meatball smothered in rich, spicy tomato sauce. These Spicy Homemade Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep. With a kick of heat and a burst of Italian-inspired flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

What is this Recipe?

This recipe features homemade meatballs made with a blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, simmered in a robust, slightly spicy tomato sauce. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, while the sauce is rich, aromatic, and perfect for pairing with pasta, crusty bread, or even polenta.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and herbs creates a dish that’s packed with flavor.
  • Versatile: Serve it with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The meatballs and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish. I’ve also included substitutions and variations to suit different dietary preferences:

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork: Adds juiciness and richness to the meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Use panko or regular breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor.
  • 1 large egg: Helps bind the meatballs together.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: For a robust, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a touch of heat.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herby, Italian-inspired flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle kick.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the meatballs.

For the Spicy Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: For a rich, savory base.
  • 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes: Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • 1 can (15 oz/400g) tomato sauce: Adds richness and body to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds an herby note.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the meatballs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish.

Optional Add-Ins or Toppings

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk: For a creamy, rich sauce.
  • Fresh basil leaves: For garnish and added freshness.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: For serving.

How to Make Spicy Homemade Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Follow these simple steps to create this hearty and flavorful dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 20-24 meatballs).

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage—just seared for flavor. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Tomato Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in the Sauce

  1. Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce, making sure they’re submerged.
  2. Cover the skillet and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
  2. Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, with crusty bread, or as a standalone dish.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Spicy Homemade Meatballs in Tomato Sauce turn out perfectly every time:

  1. Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  2. Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized meatballs, use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop.
  3. Brown the Meatballs Well: Browning adds flavor, so don’t skip this step!
  4. Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference.
  5. Make Ahead: The meatballs and sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
  6. Freeze for Later: Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop.
  7. Add Creaminess: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
  8. Serve with Pasta: Toss the meatballs and sauce with cooked spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta.