If you are on the hunt for a dish that feels like a warm, flavorful hug, look no further than the Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe. This recipe delivers tender, juicy meatballs baked to golden perfection and coated in a luxuriously creamy tomato sauce that is bursting with sunshine from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. Every bite invites you to indulge in a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and subtly spicy notes, making this one of my absolute favorite comfort foods to share with friends and family. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for a date night but easy enough for a weeknight—the perfect combination you didn’t know you needed until now.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that this recipe calls for simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the mixed ground meats to the fragrant herbs and creamy sauce components, every ingredient ensures these meatballs deliver on both taste and satisfaction.
- 1 large egg: Binds the meat mixture together perfectly; flax egg works for a vegan substitute.
- 4 cloves garlic, grated: Adds a wonderful aroma and deep flavor; garlic powder can be used if needed.
- 1 lb. ground chicken: Gives you the primary protein base; ground turkey or beef are tasty alternatives.
- 1/2 lb. ground pork: Brings moisture and richness to the meatballs; increase chicken for a leaner dish.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Keeps meatballs tender with perfect texture; regular breadcrumbs can work too.
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes: Offers just the right kick; adjust to suit your spice tolerance.
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan: Adds creaminess and umami depth; nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves: Imparts lovely herbal notes; oregano or basil can be substituted.
- Kosher salt: Enhances every flavor; season according to preference.
- 3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Provides tangy sweetness and vibrant color; fresh tomatoes work too.
- 3 Tbsp. tomato oil: Enriches the sauce; olive oil offers a lighter alternative.
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped: Gives the sauce a sweet backbone; shallots can soften the flavor.
- 3/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce; chicken broth makes it richer.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce; coconut cream substitutes nicely for dairy-free diets.
- 2 Tbsp. torn fresh basil: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal zest and a pop of green.
How to Make Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix the Meatball Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup effortless. Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your grated garlic, ground chicken and pork, egg, panko breadcrumbs, crushed red pepper flakes, half of the Parmesan, thyme, and kosher salt. Mix gently until the ingredients just come together—the key here is to avoid overmixing, which can make your meatballs less tender.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Using clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on your lined baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C) to guarantee safety and juiciness.
Step 3: Cook the Creamy Tomato Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, warm a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion in tomato oil until translucent and fragrant. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently so it thickens slightly, blending those vibrant sun-dried tomato flavors into a creamy, dreamy base.
Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Once your meatballs are out of the oven, carefully transfer them into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently toss them so every bite gets coated in that luscious sauce. Finish by sprinkling on the remaining Parmesan and scattering torn fresh basil leaves on top for that fresh, aromatic flourish.
How to Serve Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of torn fresh basil leaves elevate the look and flavor of your meatballs dramatically. If you want an extra pop, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of extra crushed red pepper flakes will do the trick beautifully.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve these meatballs over creamy polenta, buttery mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta—spaghetti or fettuccine works wonderfully. A crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables add fresh crunch and balance the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Try serving these Megan favorites inside toasted hoagie rolls for cozy meatball subs or spoon them atop fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can even skewer them with toothpicks and serve as elegant party appetizers paired with small ramekins of extra sauce on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the meatballs separate from the sauce if possible for the best texture, then combine again just before reheating.
Freezing
Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. They will keep well for up to 3 months, making this a fantastic meal to prep in advance for busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop before adding the meatballs to heat through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but gently to keep the sauce creamy and the meatballs tender.
FAQs
Can I use beef instead of chicken and pork?
Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully in this recipe, lending a richer flavor. You can even combine beef with pork for added juiciness and depth.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe?
While this recipe is designed for meat lovers, you can swap meatballs for plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetable balls like lentil or chickpea. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for dairy-free options.
How spicy are these meatballs?
They have a gentle kick thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes, which you can easily adjust to your liking—or omit for a milder taste altogether.
Can I prepare the meatballs a day ahead?
Yes! Shape the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Bake fresh when ready to enjoy that perfect texture and flavor.
What is the best way to serve the sauce?
This creamy tomato sauce shines poured over pasta, polenta, or rice, and works beautifully as a dip for garlic bread or toasted baguettes.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe enough. Its comforting, rich flavors and satisfying textures have made it a favorite in my kitchen and beyond. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just craving a delicious homemade meal, these meatballs will quickly become a cherished staple. Give it a try and savor the joy this dish brings to your table!
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Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Irresistible Marry Me Meatballs in Creamy Tomato Sauce feature a perfect blend of ground chicken and pork meatballs baked to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting yet elegant dish promises layers of flavor and a satisfying texture that will captivate any dinner guest.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 large egg
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/2 lb. ground pork
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, divided
- 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
- Kosher salt, to taste
Creamy Tomato Sauce
- 3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 Tbsp. tomato oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp. torn fresh basil
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated garlic, ground chicken, ground pork, egg, panko breadcrumbs, crushed red pepper flakes, half of the grated Parmesan, fresh thyme leaves, and kosher salt. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid making tough meatballs.
- Shape Meatballs: With clean hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add tomato oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and softened. Then stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done, transfer them carefully into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Gently toss to coat with sauce and allow the flavors to meld together for a minute or two.
- Serve: Garnish the meatballs and sauce with the remaining grated Parmesan and torn fresh basil just before serving for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- You can substitute ground turkey or beef in place of ground chicken if preferred.
- Olive oil can be used instead of tomato oil for a lighter sauce.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference for more or less heat.
- Ensure meatballs are spaced apart on the baking sheet to cook evenly without steaming.
- Use fresh herbs like oregano or basil instead of thyme for variation in flavor.
