Meatball Nirvana Recipe: A Heavenly Delight for Meat Lovers

Meatball Nirvana Recipe
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 400  F
Servings: 4
Calories: 320
Best Season: Winter, Fall
Description

Meatball Nirvana lives up to its name with tender, juicy beef meatballs enriched with Parmesan, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Simmered gently in a savory tomato-based sauce, these meatballs are perfect served over pasta, tucked into a sub roll, or enjoyed on their own. Comforting, crowd-pleasing, and versatile — a true family favorite.

Ingredients
    For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
    • For the Sauce:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
  1. 1
    In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients except the olive oil.
  2. 2
    Gently mix with your hands until just combined.
  3. 3
    Roll into equal-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
  4. 4
    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. 5
    Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
  6. 6
    Remove from skillet and set aside.
  7. 7
    In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
  8. 8
    Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  9. 9
    Pour in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
  10. 10
    Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
  11. 11
    Stir in balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
  12. 12
    Gently place the seared meatballs into the sauce.
  13. 13
    Cover and let simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes.
  14. 14
    Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  15. 15
    Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
  16. 16
    Serve over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or in a sub sandwich.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g28%
Sodium 480mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Protein 24g48%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.