Meatballs – those tender, flavorful little orbs of joy that can be elevated to new heights with the perfect sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, there’s no denying the magic that happens when you combine juicy meatballs with a rich and savory sauce. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering meatball sauce recipes that will take your mealtime game to the next level.
From classic marinara to spicy arrabbiata, creamy alfredo to sweet and tangy BBQ, these sauces offer a diverse array of flavors to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or something bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated selection of meatball sauce recipes.
So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to unleash your inner culinary master. In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect meatball sauce, from basic ingredients to expert techniques. Let’s get started!
Classic Marinara Meatball Sauce
This rich and flavorful marinara sauce is the perfect accompaniment to homemade meatballs, pasta, or as a dipping sauce for bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce featuring tender meatballs and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Serve with cooked meatballs and pasta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Meatball Sauce
Add a kick to your pasta dishes with this bold and spicy arrabbiata sauce, perfect for meatball lovers. This recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the fiery heat of Italian red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp Italian red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve with meatballs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your meatballs with this sweet and tangy BBQ sauce! Perfect for snacking, serving at parties, or using as a topping for baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and savory garlic parmesan meatball sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper until melted and well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich Mushroom Gravy Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and savory meatball sauce featuring earthy mushrooms and a hint of umami flavor. This recipe makes approximately 2 cups of sauce, perfect for serving over spaghetti, pappardelle, or rigatoni.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms in a little olive oil until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Add meatballs to the sauce and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs or use this sauce as a dip – the smoky heat of chipotles will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine ketchup, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
3. Pour the blended mixture into the saucepan and whisk until combined.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust heat level by using more or fewer chipotle peppers.
– Use as a dipping sauce or serve over meatballs, burgers, or grilled meats.
Honey Mustard Glazed Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs with this rich and tangy Honey Mustard Glazed Meatball Sauce. This easy-to-make condiment is perfect for serving alongside your favorite meatballs, subs, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce glaze for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Peanut Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or use as a dipping sauce with this flavorful Thai-inspired peanut meatball sauce. This recipe combines the richness of peanuts with the savory taste of meatballs, all in one delicious condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and curry paste. Blend until smooth.
2. Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan and whisk in salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in crushed peanuts (if using).
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs with this sweet and savory Teriyaki glaze! This sticky sauce is perfect for serving over meatballs, as a dip, or as a topping for noodles or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and cornstarch to the bowl. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4. Pour the Teriyaki glaze mixture into the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Blue Cheese Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and creamy sauce that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and meatballs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine buffalo wing sauce, heavy cream, and blue cheese crumbles. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve warm over cooked pasta, meatballs, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see our recipe)
– 1 pound ground beef
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl.
3. Add the ground beef and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. In a large skillet, combine the baked meatballs and pesto sauce. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve immediately over pasta, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and tangy balsamic glazed meatball sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, balsamic glaze, chicken broth, and oregano. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Dill and Lemon Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this tangy and creamy sauce, perfect for meatballs or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped dill until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready when you are.
Caramelized Onion Gravy Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs with a rich and savory sauce, featuring caramelized onions and beef broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ground beef, beef broth, red wine (if using), garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Form meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In the same skillet used for onions, combine caramelized onions and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve warm sauce over meatballs and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Meatball Sauce
This sweet and savory sauce is perfect for elevating pasta dishes, subs, or as a dipping accompaniment to your favorite appetizers. Roasting red peppers gives the sauce a deep, smoky flavor that pairs well with meatballs, sausage, or even vegetarian options.
Ingredients:
– 4 roasted red peppers (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, olive oil, onion, garlic, beef broth, and tomato paste.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cilantro Lime Crema Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs with a bright and tangy sauce that combines the freshness of cilantro, the zest of lime, and the richness of crema. This Cilantro Lime Crema Meatball Sauce is perfect for topping homemade meatballs, tacos, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Add the olive oil and whisk until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 35 minutes
Maple Bourbon Glazed Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs or sliders with a rich and tangy glaze that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the depth of bourbon. This sticky sauce is perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, maple syrup, brown sugar, bourbon whiskey (or apple cider vinegar), Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meatballs with these 18 savory sauce recipes! From classic marinara to creamy alfredo and spicy arrabbiata, there’s a flavor combination for every taste bud. Try sweet and tangy BBQ or rich mushroom gravy for a hearty twist. Spice things up with smoky chipotle or buffalo blue cheese, or opt for the bright flavors of Thai peanut or teriyaki glaze. These sauces will take your meatballs to the next level – explore them all today!
