If you have a craving for a comforting, hearty meal that’s both simple and deeply satisfying, this Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Juicy, tender meatballs infused with garlic and Italian herbs swim in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce that’s bursting with tomato goodness. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends without any fuss.

Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your meatballs and sauce. Simple pantry staples come together beautifully to make this classic, crowd-pleasing dish.

1 lb ground beef (80/20): The right fat content ensures juicy, tender meatballs that aren’t dry.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat while keeping the texture light; Italian-seasoned add extra flavor.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami punch to the meatballs.
1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, holding everything together beautifully.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides that classic aromatic kick everyone loves in meatballs.
1/2 medium onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs giving those iconic Italian flavors.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a balanced mild heat.
2 tbsp olive oil: For searing meatballs perfectly, locking in moisture.
2 cups marinara sauce: The rich, tangy base that brings everything together in one delicious simmer.

How to Make Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter so everything is at your fingertips. This simple setup makes the cooking process smooth and fun, preventing any last-minute scrambling.

Step 2: Combine the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine everything just until blended—overmixing can make the meatballs tough, and you want them tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres, roughly one inch in diameter. Making them uniform ensures even cooking, and these bite-sized meatballs will cook through perfectly in the next step.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning carefully to get a golden crust on all sides. This searing locks in juices and adds a lovely caramelized flavor that elevates the dish.

Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

Once all meatballs are browned, pour the marinara sauce over them in the skillet. Cover and let everything simmer gently on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer lets the flavors meld and ensures the meatballs cook fully tender and infused with the tomato sauce’s richness.

How to Serve Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top to add a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. A little extra grated Parmesan cheese right before serving takes things up a notch and adds a nutty, salty finish that melts wonderfully over warm meatballs.

Side Dishes

Meatballs and marinara are incredibly versatile. Serve them over spaghetti or your favorite pasta for classic comfort food, or go for creamy polenta for a smooth, rich contrast. Garlic bread or a crisp green salad brighten the meal and provide a lovely balance to the rich sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, turn these meatballs into sliders with crusty rolls and melted provolone. Or, spoon them over baked ziti for a hearty casserole that feeds a crowd. You can even skewer meatballs as appetizers alongside mini mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes for a festive, bite-sized treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover meatballs and sauce to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will keep deliciously for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals with minimal effort.

Freezing

Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe also freezes wonderfully. Arrange the cooked and cooled meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can store them for up to 3 months, perfect for quick, comforting dinners anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat so the sauce stays luscious and the meatballs heat through evenly. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, though it’s best to add a bit more moisture, like a splash of olive oil or extra breadcrumbs soaked in milk, to keep the meatballs tender.

Do I have to brown the meatballs before simmering?

Browning adds flavor and a beautiful texture to your meatballs, but if you’re short on time, you can skip searing and place the meatballs directly into the marinara sauce to cook through. Just expect a softer exterior.

What’s a good way to tell if meatballs are cooked thoroughly?

Meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one in half to check that the inside is no longer pink and the juices run clear.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and make sure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients. The result will be just as delicious.

How spicy is this Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe?

This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or meat mixture for an extra kick if you like your food with more heat.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a plate of well-made meatballs swimming in savory marinara sauce, and this Ground Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe delivers all that cozy, crowd-pleasing goodness with ease. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or preparing for a gathering, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make this delicious recipe your own—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Kimberly