The Meatball Marinara sauce is a rich and flavorful red sauce that perfectly complements the tender meatballs. Bursting with intense flavors, this sauce is the ideal base for simmering the meatballs to perfection. Here, you’ll find two batch sizes to suit your needs—a large batch that makes 6 cups and a small batch that makes 3 cups. The large batch provides enough sauce for a full recipe of the small meatballs, while the small batch is perfect for saucing the larger meatballs. Whether you choose to use it immediately or make it ahead for convenience, the Meatball Marinara will be the star of your Italian-inspired dishes.
INGREDIENTS:
LARGE BATCH:
- 2.4 pounds (1.1 kilograms/4½ cups) ground tomatoes, preferably 6 in 1 or DiNapoli
- 12 ounces (340 grams/1¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons) tomato paste, preferably SuperDolce
- 2 tablespoons (3.5 grams) dried oregano
- 1½ teaspoon (7 grams) fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons (28 grams) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 fresh basil leaf, torn
SMALL BATCH:
- 1.2 pounds (550 grams/2¼ cups) ground tomatoes, preferably 6 in 1 or DiNapoli
- 6 ounces (170 grams/½ cup plus 3 tablespoons) tomato paste, preferably SuperDolce
- 1 tablespoon (2 grams) dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon (3.5 grams) fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon (14 grams) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small fresh basil leaf, torn
PREPARATIONS:
- If you are making the sauce to use immediately, combine all of the ingredients in a small stockpot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the sauce from the heat.
OR
- If you are making the sauce ahead, combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
YIELD:
- Large Batch: 6 cups (1.5 kilograms)
- Small Batch: 3 cups (755 grams)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- The Meatball Marinara sauce can be prepared ahead for convenience, making meal preparation a breeze.
- The sauce intensifies in flavor when simmered with the meatballs, creating a harmonious and delightful pairing.
TIPS:
- Opt for high-quality ground tomatoes and tomato paste for the best results.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more oregano or salt if desired.
- For a burst of freshness, garnish with additional torn basil leaves before serving.
The Meatball Marinara sauce is a delectable addition to any Italian-inspired meal, delivering bold flavors and luscious textures that complement the tender meatballs perfectly. Its versatility allows you to choose between the large batch or small batch, catering to the number of meatballs you wish to prepare. Made with high-quality ground tomatoes, tomato paste, and a medley of savory herbs, this sauce elevates your meatball dishes to new heights.
Whether you choose to use the sauce immediately or prepare it ahead for future meals, its taste and aroma will make you fall in love with Italian cuisine all over again. The combination of dried oregano, fresh basil, and fine sea salt creates a delightful balance of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Each mouthful offers a burst of rich tomato goodness, underscored by the smoothness of extra virgin olive oil.
Making the Meatball Marinara sauce is a breeze, and its pairing with the meatballs takes the entire dining experience to a whole new level. The sauce’s ability to intensify in flavor when simmered with the meatballs creates a harmonious dish that leaves you craving more. Plus, its make-ahead capability makes it a convenient option for busy days when you want to enjoy a delightful home-cooked meal.
The Meatball Marinara sauce is the secret to achieving authentic Italian flavors in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bring the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine to your table. The luscious tomato base, infused with fragrant basil and oregano, captures the essence of traditional Italian sauces.
In conclusion, the Meatball Marinara sauce is an essential component of any Italian-inspired feast. Its bold flavors, rich textures, and aromatic herbs create a symphony of taste that perfectly complements the tender meatballs. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this sauce will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen. Try the Meatball Marinara sauce today and elevate your meatball dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness.