There’s nothing like tender, herb-packed meatballs simmered in a vibrant tomato-pepper sauce to turn a weeknight into something special. Perfectly portioned for 2-3 people, this recipe is quick, flavor-forward, and guaranteed to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🌟
- Weeknight Wonder: Ready in 40 minutes—faster than delivery!
- Bold, Balanced Flavors: Sweet peppers, tangy tomatoes, and savory meatballs unite.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Sauce freezes beautifully; meatballs reheat like a dream.
- Customizable: Swap beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles!
Ingredients (Serves 2-3) 🧾
For the Meatballs:
- 300g (10.5 oz) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Tomato-Pepper Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Fresh basil/parsley (to garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Make the Meatballs
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork!).
- Roll into 12-14 small meatballs (1.5-inch size).
2. Sear the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs 2-3 mins per side until golden (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce). Set aside.
3. Build the Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft (5 mins). Add garlic, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, broth, and sugar. Simmer 10 mins until thickened.
4. Simmer Together
- Gently nestle meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer 15-20 mins until cooked through.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs & Sauce 💡
- Keep Them Tender: Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness, and avoid overmixing.
- Bake for Less Mess: Bake meatballs at 200°C (400°F) for 15 mins instead of frying.
- Sauce Too Thin? Simmer uncovered to reduce. Too thick? Add broth.
- Boost Umami: Stir 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire into the sauce.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving) 📊
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 28g | Carbs: 25g | Fat: 28g
- Rich in: Vitamin C (90% DV), Iron (25% DV), Fiber (4g)
Protein-packed and full of veggie goodness!
Serving Tips 🍝🥖
- Classic Pairing: Toss with spaghetti or creamy polenta.
- Bread Lovers: Serve with garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
- Low-Carb: Zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice.
- Garnish Game: Add grated Parmesan, lemon zest, or chili oil.
Time to Dig In! 🎉
This Savory Meatballs in Tomato-Pepper Sauce is comfort food at its finest—simple enough for Tuesday, fancy enough for date night. ❤️
👩🍳 Tried this recipe? Tag us on Instagram with your meatball masterpiece—we’ll share our favorites! 📸
👉 Craving more cozy dinners? Subscribe for weekly recipes and get a FREE 5-Day Comfort Food Meal Plan! 🎁
Love this? Try these next!
- [Creamy Tuscan Chicken Meatballs]
- [Spicy Harissa Meatball Subs]
Good food doesn’t have to be complicated. 🌿✨
