Saucy Sausage Meatballs
Delightful and easy-to-make meatballs infused with Italian sausage and ground beef, served in a rich sauce, perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings.
Saucy Sausage Meatballs, with their rich, savory flavor and moist texture, are a delightful dinner option that never fails to impress. Perfect for a weeknight meal or an entertaining gathering, these meatballs stand out due to their unique blend of Italian sausage and ground beef, infused with vibrant spices and a hint of sweetness from the orange zest. If you’re on the lookout for a satisfying and comforting dish, look no further than this recipe.
What makes this recipe special
You’ll love this dish for its deliciousness and ease of preparation. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser! Imagine a bustling family dinner or a cozy night in where these flavorful meatballs steal the show. Here’s a rave review from one of many happy cooks:
When you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen, these meatballs are the perfect choice. The harmonious blend of spices and the luscious sauce make them a remarkable addition to any meal. If you’re also a fan of Asian flavors, consider trying Asian meatballs for a delightful twist.
Preparing Saucy Sausage Meatballs
Creating these saucy gems is simpler than you might think. Here’s a quick overview of the process: Begin by preheating your broiler and preparing your baking sheet. Next, blend your ingredients in a large bowl before forming the mixture into meatballs. They are then broiled until perfectly cooked and simmered in a rich sauce for added flavor. The whole process is straightforward, making it easy to whip up these meatballs anytime.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for the perfect Saucy Sausage Meatballs:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup panko
- 4 large cloves garlic, grated
- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 2 oz. provolone, finely grated
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 lb. ground beef (85 percent lean)
- 1/2 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 strip orange zest
- 1 small cinnamon stick
For a different twist on meatballs, consider preparing them in an air fryer. You can find a great guide here: Air Fryer Sausage and Peppers.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by heating your broiler. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with nonstick foil.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the panko and allow it to sit for about a minute for better texture.
- Mix in the grated garlic, parsley, cheeses, and oregano.
- Gently fold in the ground beef and Italian sausage until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 20 meatballs, each about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Broil for 6 to 8 minutes or until they’re cooked through.
- Meanwhile, combine the tomato sauce, orange zest, and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan; simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Toss the meatballs in the sauce before serving.
01Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
Sauce
02Method
- Preparation
- Cooking
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0 OF 9 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Serve over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, on their own as an appetizer. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat before serving.
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Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Saucy Sausage Meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, paired with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. They also work wonderfully in a sub sandwich or on their own as a satisfying appetizer. You can get creative by adding some fresh basil or parmesan on top for an extra touch!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs after cooking; they can last for up to three months. When reheating, make sure they’re heated through before serving.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your meatball flavors! Consider adding diced bell peppers or different cheese types to the mix. For a spicy kick, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, or if you’re watching your carbs, try using zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
FAQ
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well too, although the flavor will be slightly different.
2. What can I use instead of panko?
Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko, though they may yield a slightly denser texture.
3. Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients to make enough meatballs for a crowd, just be sure to adjust cooking time if necessary.
Conclusion
Saucy Sausage Meatballs are not only a quick and satisfying meal option, but they also bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. For more ideas, check out Easy Italian Sausage Meatball Recipe and my Keto Meatballs. These resources will inspire you to experiment even further with your culinary adventures!
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
