Simple Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

This recipe is based upon an Italian family recipe, modified for working or busy moms like me, who need something homemade but quick. While cooking the sauce, prepare a fresh salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. Serve hot over your favorite pasta.

• Preparation Time: 20 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Calories: 366 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (Optional)
• 1 pinch white sugar (Optional)
• 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning
• ¼ cup dried plain bread crumbs
• 2 (20 ounce) jars marinara sauce, or more to taste

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Blend ketchup and milk together in a bowl. Mix in beef, egg, bread crumbs, and Greek seasoning to combine.

Step 2

Heat marinara sauce to a simmer in a 2-quart pot over low heat.

Step 3

Roll beef mixture with your hands to form meatballs. Drop into the simmering sauce. Add sugar and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring gently and regularly, until meatballs are no longer pink and sauce is heated through, 25 to 30 minutes.