15-Minute Sausage Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
These 15-Minute Sausage Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce until tender. Finished with parmesan cheese and fresh basil, this easy one-pan recipe makes a quick and comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Cheese grater
- Serving spoon
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 500 g Italian sausage casings removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl combine the sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch each.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir gently.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if using. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover partially and cook for 8-10 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked through and tender.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve warm with pasta, bread, rice, or vegetables.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 23 g
- Fat: 31 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
