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20-Min Polpette al Sugo

Tender beef meatballs simmered in garlicky tomato sauce—a weeknight version of the Italian classic, ready in 20 minutes. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
385
Protein
32g
20-Min Polpette al Sugo
comfortrusticitalianbeeftenderjuicyweeknightmain-dish

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 whole egg
  • ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 3 whole garlic clove, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh basil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix ground beef, panko, egg, parmesan, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper until just combined.

  2. 2

    Roll mixture into 12 golf-ball-sized meatballs. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high.

  3. 3

    Brown meatballs 2 minutes per side without stirring — should look caramelized but not cooked through.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic, cook 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in crushed tomatoes and stir gently.

  5. 5

    Simmer 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce clings to them.

  6. 6

    Tear in fresh basil, taste, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Tools you’ll need

  • large skillet (12-inch)
  • large bowl
  • wooden spoon

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