Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce
Jamie Oliver Recipes

Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Meatballs and Tomato Sauce is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Made with tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, these meatballs pack plenty of flavor while the tomato sauce adds a tangy and savory element that balances the dish beautifully.

What is Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce?

Jamie Oliver’s Meatballs and Tomato Sauce is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines homemade meatballs with a vibrant tomato sauce made from scratch. The meatballs are usually a mix of beef and pork, seasoned with herbs, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then browned to perfection. They are simmered in a tangy, garlic-infused tomato sauce, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare: A simple and straightforward recipe that delivers amazing results.
  • Perfect for families: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s loved by both kids and adults.
  • Homemade goodness: Making the meatballs and sauce from scratch ensures fresh, wholesome flavors.
  • Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or even on its own with a side of vegetables.
  • Comforting and hearty: Ideal for a cozy meal on colder days or when you’re craving something satisfying.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

For the meatballs:

  • 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef – for a rich, hearty base.
  • 250g (8.8 oz) ground pork – adds extra flavor and moisture.
  • 1 small onion – finely chopped for sweetness.
  • 2 garlic cloves – minced for added flavor.
  • 1 large egg – to bind the mixture together.
  • 50g (1.7 oz) breadcrumbs – helps hold the meatballs together.
  • 50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese – grated, adds a savory depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – finely chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for an Italian touch.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste.

For the tomato sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing.
  • 1 small onion – finely chopped.
  • 3 garlic cloves – minced.
  • 800g (28 oz) canned chopped tomatoes – for a rich tomato base.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – for added depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil – for aromatic flavor.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined.
  2. Shape the meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and set them aside on a plate.
  3. Brown the meatballs: In a large frying pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
  4. Make the tomato sauce: In the same pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Add the sugar, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  6. Simmer the meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pan with the sauce. Cover the pan and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  • Spaghetti: The classic pairing for meatballs and tomato sauce.
  • Mashed potatoes: A creamy, comforting side that complements the rich sauce.
  • Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce.
  • Steamed vegetables: Add a light, healthy side like broccoli or green beans.
  • Rice: A simple base that allows the meatballs and sauce to shine.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  • Mix gently: Don’t overwork the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients just until everything is mixed.
  • Chill the meatballs: If you have time, refrigerate the shaped meatballs for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
  • Use a mix of meats: Combining beef and pork gives the meatballs a juicier texture and more depth of flavor.
  • Simmer slowly: Let the meatballs simmer gently in the tomato sauce to absorb all the rich flavors.
  • Season the sauce well: Taste the tomato sauce before adding the meatballs and adjust the seasoning to ensure it’s well balanced.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  • Use turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, substitute the beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken.
  • Add vegetables: Sauté some bell peppers or zucchini with the onions for a veggie-packed sauce.
  • Cheese-stuffed meatballs: For a cheesy surprise, place a small piece of mozzarella inside each meatball before shaping.
  • Spicy meatballs: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  • Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for later: The meatballs and sauce can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Keep the sauce separate: If freezing, consider storing the meatballs and sauce separately to prevent the meatballs from becoming too soft.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

  • Stovetop method: Reheat the meatballs and sauce gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
  • Microwave option: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  • Add a splash of water: If the sauce thickens too much during reheating, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce Healthier?

  • Use lean meats: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce the fat content.
  • Bake the meatballs: Instead of frying, bake the meatballs in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes to cut down on oil.
  • Add more vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the tomato sauce.
  • Reduce salt: Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and reduce the amount of added salt to keep the sodium levels in check.
  • Swap breadcrumbs: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or oats for added fiber.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 6g

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Meatballs and Tomato Sauce is a classic, hearty meal that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. With tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, this dish brings comfort to any dinner table. Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich, homemade flavors of this timeless favorite!

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Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce

Jamie Oliver Meatballs and Tomato Sauce Recipe

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: British

Description

Jamie Oliver’s Meatballs and Tomato Sauce is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines homemade meatballs with a vibrant tomato sauce made from scratch. The meatballs are usually a mix of beef and pork, seasoned with herbs, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then browned to perfection. They are simmered in a tangy, garlic-infused tomato sauce, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale

For the meatballs:

  • 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef – for a rich, hearty base.
  • 250g (8.8 oz) ground pork – adds extra flavor and moisture.
  • 1 small onion – finely chopped for sweetness.
  • 2 garlic cloves – minced for added flavor.
  • 1 large egg – to bind the mixture together.
  • 50g (1.7 oz) breadcrumbs – helps hold the meatballs together.
  • 50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese – grated, adds a savory depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – finely chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for an Italian touch.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste.

For the tomato sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing.
  • 1 small onion – finely chopped.
  • 3 garlic cloves – minced.
  • 800g (28 oz) canned chopped tomatoes – for a rich tomato base.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – for added depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil – for aromatic flavor.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined.
  2. Shape the meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and set them aside on a plate.
  3. Brown the meatballs: In a large frying pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
  4. Make the tomato sauce: In the same pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Add the sugar, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  6. Simmer the meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pan with the sauce. Cover the pan and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

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