Jamie Oliver Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Check out a simple, comforting dish perfect for family dinners: Italian meatballs cooking away in a bright tomato sauce. These Jamie Oliver Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce have the added beauty of being in a beautiful homemade, rustic sauce, making them tender, juicy and packed full of herby goodness. It’s a recipe that feels both familiar and special, the kind of thing to have everyone gathered around the table.

Italian meatballs are one of those classic comfort foods that don’t go out of style. The well-seasoned meat and fragrant tomato sauce are pure magic. Even better, you can dish this up all kinds of ways — tossed with pasta, spooned over luscious polenta, or just alongside crusty bread to soak up that glorious sauce.

• Tomatoes: Good quality canned tomatoes or passata makes a huge difference. They are rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant, and help form a naturally sweet, brightly colored sauce.
• Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs make the meatballs lighter and more tender than dry breadcrumbs would. If you want to boost nutrition, try whole-grain breadcrumbs for added fiber.
• Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley go beyond flavor; they bring vitamins and minerals.

Types of Meatballs

A variety of meatballs exist, each bringing its own unique flavors and textures to the table. Here are some popular types you might explore:

Any of these types can bring something special to your dinner table, so why not try making a few different variations to delight your family?

Traditional Italian Meatballs

For a classic approach, traditional Italian meatballs are your best bet. Made predominantly with ground beef and sometimes a mix of pork, these meatballs are combined with breadcrumbs soaked in milk, herbs, and Parmesan for added flavor. The result is a tender, juicy meatball that perfectly complements a vibrant tomato sauce, making them a timeless favorite at family dinners.

Variations in Ingredients

While Italian meatballs are a beloved staple, you can enhance the dish through various ingredient modifications. Experimenting with different meats like turkey or chicken adds a lighter twist, while incorporating spices such as fennel or allspice introduces exciting flavors. Additionally, using gluten-free breadcrumbs or skipping breadcrumbs altogether can lead to both healthier and unique options.

Plus, you might find that switching up your ingredients can lead to surprising new tastes and textures that elevate your dish. For instance, using herbs like basil, oregano, or even experimenting with cheeses can intensify flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding ingredients like spinach or feta to boost nutrition. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make the recipe your own!

For the Meatballs:

• 500g (about 1 lb) minced beef or a mixture of beef and pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 50g fresh breadcrumbs (about ½ cup)
• 1 large free-range egg
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• A small handful of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, sliced
  • 800g (2 cans) quality chopped tomatoes or passata
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if needed)

Prep the Meatballs:

Place the minced meat, onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs and egg in a big bowl. Add salt, pepper and a bit of grated Parmesan, if you want. Using your hands, mix gently until combined. Don’t overmix the mixture — it’s what keeps the meatball light.

Shape and Brown:

Form the mixture into walnut-sized balls. In a large frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently until golden on all sides. Transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper to soak up excess oil.

Make the Sauce:

In another large pan heat the olive oil on medium heat. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the sliced garlic, letting it bubble for a minute then add the chopped tomatoes or the passata. Add to a gentle simmer and stir in most of the basil leaves. Add salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste a little acidic.

Simmer the Meatballs:

Gently nestle the browned meatballs into the sauce. Let them simmer away for about 20-30 minutes, partially covered, until just cooked through and the flavors have melded wonderfully. Taste, and adjust seasoning, if needed.

Serve & Enjoy:

Sprinkle the remaining basil leaves over the top and serve. Whether you spoon these meatballs and sauce over a bed of spaghetti, nestle them inside a crusty sub roll, or eat them on their own, this Jamie Oliver Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe brings plenty of rich, comforting flavors straight to your home kitchen.

Nutritional Information per Serving

• Calories: ~450 kcal

• Protein: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

  • Sugars: 6g

• Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 8g

• Fiber: 4g

• Salt: 1.5g

Nutritional Information

Now, if you’re looking to enjoy a comforting family dinner without compromising your dietary goals, this recipe for Jamie Oliver’s Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a great option. This dish balances wholesome ingredients, providing protein from the meatballs and vitamins from the tomato sauce, making it a nourishing meal that everyone can appreciate.

Caloric Breakdown

Information shows that a serving of these meatballs generally contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and any additional ingredients you might choose to add. The blend of meat, spices, and sauce contributes to this flavorful yet balanced caloric profile.

Healthy Modifications

For those seeking a lighter version of this recipe, you can easily make healthy modifications. Utilizing lean ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, can significantly reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor, while incorporating more vegetables into the sauce can boost the nutrient density.

With these modifications, you not only lower the overall calories but also add important vitamins and minerals to your meal. Substituting breadcrumbs with finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots can enhance texture and moisture, promoting healthier eating habits. You can also opt for whole grain pasta or serve the dish over leafy greens, making it a more wholesome choice that keeps your family satisfied and healthy.

Wine Pairing

• Red Wine:

  • Chianti: A classic Italian red that pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce and savory meatballs, offering enough acidity to balance the dish’s richness.

  • Zinfandel: A bold red with deep berry flavors and a touch of spice, making it a great match for the hearty meatballs and the savory sauce.

• White Wine:

  • Chardonnay (unoaked): Crisp and light, it complements the brightness of the tomatoes while cutting through the richness of the meatballs and sauce.

• Beer:

  • Amber Ale: This beer’s maltiness and slight sweetness work well with the savory meatballs and the tangy tomato sauce, providing a nice balance of flavors.

This comforting Italian dish is perfect for family meals, offering a mix of bold flavors and a satisfying texture!

Summing up

Summing up, the Jamie Oliver Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe is a delightful, heartwarming dish that transforms a simple family dinner into a memorable gathering. With its tender meatballs enveloped in a rich, homemade sauce, you can easily serve this classic in various ways, whether alongside pasta or crusty bread. This recipe not only showcases comforting flavors but also invites you to share quality time with loved ones around the table, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.