🍅🧆 Savory Meatballs in Tomato-Pepper Sauce: Cozy Dinner for Two (or Three!) in 40 Minutes! 🕒✨

February 17, 2025

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!

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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!