- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk until absorbed. Add the ground meat, egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Set aside on a plate.
- Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, then transfer to a plate. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add sugar (if using), and season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce:
- Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir gently occasionally, being careful not to break the meatballs.
- Serve:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the meatballs and sauce hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. They’re perfect with pasta, in a sub, or with a side of bread.
Tips for Success:
- Soaking Breadcrumbs: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk (a process called panade) helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
- Gentle Mixing: Mix the meatball ingredients until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Simmering: Simmering the meatballs in sauce not only cooks them through but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Make sure the heat is low enough to prevent the bottom from burning.
Conclusion:
Homemade meatballs simmering in sauce is a dish that speaks of home, comfort, and the joy of cooking from scratch. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to delight. Enjoy the process of cooking, the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen, and, most importantly, the delicious meal you’ve created.