Some dishes are timeless classics for a reason. AK FOOD presents a recipe for pork meatballs in tomato sauce that’s as comforting and satisfying as it gets. Get ready to savor a taste of tradition with a simple, foolproof recipe that always hits the spot.
Meatballs in tomato sauce
The appeal of pork meatballs in tomato sauce
What is it about pork meatballs in tomato sauce that makes this dish so universally adored? The answer lies in a captivating blend of flavor and adaptability that has solidified pork meatballs in tomato sauce as a culinary icon.
Flavor profile
Savory Harmony
The richness of ground pork, often enhanced with aromatic seasonings like garlic, onion, and herbs, creates a deeply savory foundation for your pork meatballs in tomato sauce.
Bright Acidity
The tomato sauce, whether a simple blend of crushed tomatoes or a slow-simmered masterpiece, provides a welcome acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat in your pork meatballs in tomato sauce.
Touch of Sweetness
Many recipes for pork meatballs in tomato sauce incorporate a hint of sweetness, often from brown sugar or a touch of honey, to round out the flavors and create a balanced profile.
Honey
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Depth of Umami
The long, slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a sauce with layers of savory umami that coats pork meatballs in tomato sauce in pure deliciousness.
Versatility
Global Inspirations
While often associated with Italian cuisine, pork meatballs in tomato sauce transcend cultural boundaries. Variations abound, incorporating Asian-inspired flavors like ginger and soy sauce, or fiery spices for a touch of heat.
Beyond the Bowl
This versatile dish can be served in countless ways. Nestle the meatballs and sauce over a bed of fluffy pasta, polenta, or creamy risotto. Tuck them into crusty bread for a satisfying sandwich or slider. Or, embrace their simplicity and enjoy them as-is, with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
A Meal Prep Marvel
Pork meatballs in tomato sauce are ideal for batch cooking and meal prepping. Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Freeze meatballs portions for future meals
Ready to savor the irresistible flavors of pork meatballs in tomato sauce? Check out our foolproof recipe below and discover why this classic dish continues to win the customer’s taste!
Ingredients for pork meatballs in tomato sauce
Here are ingredient lists for pork meatballs in tomato sauce, separated for the meatballs and the sauce.
For the pork meatballs
- 1 pound ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a nice salty bite)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme).
- Season with salt and pepper
For the tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, in can
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained, canned
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained.
- 1 Tbsp sugar (helps balance acidity)
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- Optional, for heat: ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Season with salt and pepper
Step-by-step recipe for pork meatballs in tomato sauce
Ready to create a comforting classic that will have everyone asking for seconds? This pork meatballs in tomato sauce recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Prepare the pork meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine ingredients gently, avoiding overmixing the meatballs.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
Meatballs
Make the tomato sauce
- While you form the meatballs, heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Tomato sauce
Combine meatballs and sauce
- Gently place the pork meatballs in the simmering tomato sauce. Make sure the meatballs are mostly submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Decorate the dish
- Once the meatballs are cooked through, it’s time to add the finishing touches! Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve your pork meatballs in tomato sauce over a bed of your favorite pasta, creamy polenta, or fluffy rice.
Pork meatballs in tomato sauce
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Elevate Your Pork Meatballs in Tomato Sauce: Serving Ideas and Creative Twists
You’ve mastered the art of crafting the perfect pork meatballs in tomato sauce – now, let’s explore the endless possibilities for serving and customizing this culinary classic.
Pairing suggestions
- Classic Comfort: Embrace tradition and serve pork meatballs in tomato sauce over fluffy spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair pasta.
- Creamy Indulgence: For a touch of richness, pair your meatballs with creamy polenta, risotto, or mashed potatoes.
- Hearty Delights: Embrace a more rustic vibe with crusty bread for dipping, or serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables.
Meatballs served with bread and broccoli
Variations and customizations
- Spice It Up: Add a kick to your meatballs with a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture.
- Global Flavors: Explore Asian-inspired variations by incorporating ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil into the meatballs. Or, add a Mediterranean twist with chopped fresh herbs like oregano, mint, and feta cheese.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stuff your meatballs with a cube of mozzarella cheese for a gooey, satisfying surprise.
More information: Meatballs with sauce
Conclusion
This pork meatballs in tomato sauce recipe is just the beginning! Stay tuned for more culinary adventures and cooking tips from AK FOOD. Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a delicious recipe.
Have questions about this recipe or want to share your culinary creations? Connect with us at AK FOOD – we love hearing from fellow food lovers!
Anh Kim Food Production Joint Stock Company (AK FOOD)
Phone number: 028 3815 9696
Email: contact@akfood.com.vn
Address: Lot III – 1B, Street 1, Tan Binh Industrial Park, Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City