Meatballs With Tomato Sauce and Rice

Sharing is caring!

When you think of comfort food, few meals can compare to a plate of hearty meatballs served with a flavorful tomato sauce and fluffy rice.

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

The combination of tender, seasoned meatballs paired with rich, savory tomato sauce and perfectly cooked rice is a match made in culinary heaven.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, yet delicious recipe that is perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The beauty of this meatballs with tomato sauce and rice recipe lies in its simplicity and comfort.

It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve on a special occasion.

These meatballs are juicy and flavorful, thanks to a combination of fresh ingredients that enhance their taste and texture.

The savory tomato sauce enriches the flavors and creates a delicious fusion with the rice.

Not to mention, this dish is a great way to introduce your family to homemade meals made from scratch.

With just a handful of ingredients and an easy cooking method, you can create a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced or grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dried breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

How To Make Meatballs With Tomato Sauce and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, minced garlic, dried breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, black pepper, and salt.

Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined.

Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your meat mixture is ready, scoop out a portion (about 2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball in your hands.

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased plate.

Repeat until you have used all of the mixture, making approximately 20 meatballs.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a separate saucepan, you can make a simple tomato sauce while the meatballs are cooking.

Pour in your favorite tomato sauce or crush canned tomatoes with a little salt and pepper to create a fresh sauce.

Heat the sauce over low-medium heat and let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil.

Once hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet.

Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.

Depending on the size of your meatballs, you may need to adjust the cooking time.

A meat thermometer should read at least 160°F (70°C) in the center.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Once the meatballs are cooked, place them into the simmering tomato sauce and allow them to cook together for an additional 5-10 minutes.

This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve with Rice

While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, you can prepare your rice according to package instructions.

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve it on plates topped with the meatballs and rich tomato sauce.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the meat mixture.
• Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for added richness.
• If you prefer spicy meatballs, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• For a gluten-free option, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oatmeal.

Variations and Customizations

• Try adding chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the meatball mixture for a nutritious boost.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or basil, for added flavor.
• Serve the meatballs over pasta instead of rice for a different take on the classic dish.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover meatballs and sauce, don’t worry! This dish stores beautifully.

Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Alternatively, you can freeze your leftovers.

Place the cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook them.

You can also freeze uncooked meatballs and cook them from frozen, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What is the best way to cook meatballs without them falling apart?

Ensure that you mix the ingredients just until combined and avoid overworking the meat.

Chilling the meatballs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape.

How can I add more flavor to the tomato sauce?

You can enhance the flavor of your sauce by adding additional herbs, such as basil or oregano, or a splash of grape juice for depth.

Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the tomatoes can also make a significant difference.

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb for a different flavor profile.

Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for different meats.

Conclusion

Now that you have the scoop on how to make these incredible meatballs with tomato sauce and rice, it’s time to get into the kitchen and whip up this soul-satisfying meal.

Whether it’s for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.

With its rich flavors and tender meatballs, every bite will remind you why home-cooked meals are so special.

Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Print