Description
These savory meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce with a touch of maple syrup for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Ideal for a cozy dinner or served as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, or use more beef)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, maple syrup, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve warm over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can make the meatballs ahead and freeze them for later use.
- Use 100% pure maple syrup for the best taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: meatballs in maple tomato sauce, sweet and savory meatballs, tomato maple meatballs, dinner meatball recipe