Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

**For the Meatballs:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Tomato Sauce:**
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
– In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
– Mix until well combined.
– Form the mixture into meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).

2. **Cook the Meatballs:**
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. **Make the Tomato Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
– Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
– Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
– Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
– Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

4. **Combine and Simmer:**
– Add the browned meatballs back to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
– Cover and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

5. **Serve:**
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
– Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, with crusty bread, or as desired.

Enjoy your homemade meatballs in tomato sauce! Let me know if you have any specific preferences or dietary needs, and I can adjust the recipe accordingly.