Skillet Meatballs with Marinara is a comforting and classic dish that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich and savory marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, these meatballs are easy to make and can be served over pasta, with crusty bread, or on their own. The combination of juicy meatballs and tangy marinara sauce creates a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will satisfy everyone at the table. This one-pan wonder ensures minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Marinara Sauce:
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Simmer the Meatballs:
- Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve:
- Garnish the skillet meatballs with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve over pasta, with crusty bread, or on their own.
Enjoy these Skillet Meatballs with Marinara as a hearty and delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, offering the perfect combination of savory meatballs and rich marinara sauce
