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Easy One-Pot Meatballs in Flavor-Packed Marinara Sauce

A comforting and convenient dish that combines juicy meatballs with a rich marinara sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 pound Ground Chicken or Beef Choose ground chicken for a lighter option or beef for richness.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated for best results.
  • 1 large Egg Essential for binding the meatball mixture.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 Onion, finely chopped Contributes sweetness and depth.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Provides authentic Italian flavor.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Enhances the flavor of the meat and sauce.

Marinara Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 14-ounce cans Canned Diced Tomatoes Forms the base of the marinara sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing onions and garlic.
  • 1 handful Fresh Basil, chopped Enhances the marinara with freshness.

Instructions

  • Prepare your ingredients by measuring them out to streamline the cooking process.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken or beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
  • Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
  • Sauté the chopped onion in the same pot until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Add canned diced tomatoes and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot.
  • Add chopped basil and return the meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes.
  • Check the meatballs for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.