Remember those family dinners from childhood, a giant bowl of steaming spaghetti and meatballs in the center of the table? Well, that’s how I always thought meatballs should be served until I tried them like this. This recipe captures that warm, comforting feeling but with a healthy and delicious twist.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. The meatballs themselves are superstars – packed with flavor from the onions, garlic, and a perfect blend of ground beef and pork. Plus, they're easily customizable! We actually discovered this when my wife went gluten-free. We simply swapped out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions, and voila – delicious, crowd-pleasing meatballs for everyone!
These meatballs are so flavorful that they stand on their own, but they also pair well with garlic bread, as I did here, or go great alongside zucchini noodles or other veggies. There is some debate around the best way to cook meatballs: searing or baking. Searing gives your meatballs a beautiful, crispy outer layer. But it can be messy with splatters and smoke. Plus, it requires perfect timing to avoid undercooked or burnt centers. Baking is less messy and ensures all the meatballs cook evenly throughout, which is why we’ve chosen this method.
FAQs
Can I use all ground beef or all ground pork?
Absolutely! While the combination of ground beef and pork adds a delicious depth of flavor, feel free to use whichever type of ground meat you prefer.
How do I store meatball marinara?
Meatballs are a dream come true for leftovers! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze meatball marinara?
Allow the cooked Meatball Marinara to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, label it with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat gently on the stovetop or oven until heated through.
What can I serve with meatball marinara?
This recipe is incredibly versatile in terms of sides. You can serve it classic style over pasta with parmesan cheese, or for a lighter option, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. You can also pair it with crusty garlic bread or Italian rolls or opt for a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette.
Can I make this recipe plant-based?
If you’d like to make this recipe plant-based, you can use a plant-based ground “meat” alternative or mashed lentils. You can also omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
