7 Meatball Flights Featuring Sauces For Every Palate

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Classic Marinara Sauce Meatballs

Classic Marinara Sauce Meatballs are a timeless Italian dish that combines flavorful meatballs with a rich, aromatic sauce. This comfort food is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it over pasta, enjoying it in a sandwich, or simply savoring it on its own. The marriage of the tender meatballs and the zesty marinara sauce will surely delight your taste buds.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients with your hands until well combined, ensuring not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage, just get a nice golden crust. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside on a plate.

4. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and sugar. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to develop flavors.

5. Add the Meatballs to the Sauce:

Gently place the browned meatballs into the simmering marinara sauce, ensuring they are submerged. Cover the skillet and let them cook for an additional 20 minutes on low heat. This will allow the meatballs to finish cooking and absorb the delicious sauce flavors.

6. Serve the Dish:

Once the meatballs are cooked through, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If using, sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for added freshness. Serve the meatballs with pasta, in a sub, or on their own, and enjoy the savory goodness of your classic marinara sauce meatballs!

Zesty Barbecue Meatballs

Zesty Barbecue Meatballs are a flavorful twist on the classic meatball dish, combining savory meatballs with a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a casual family dinner, offering a delicious bite that will leave everyone craving more.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and egg. Use your hands to mix everything together until well incorporated, but be careful not to over-mix, as this can cause the meatballs to become tough.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Using your hands, form the meat mixture into meatballs about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, until they develop a nice golden crust. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside on a plate.

4. Prepare the Barbecue Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and let it heat through for a couple of minutes on low heat.

5. Add the Meatballs to the Sauce:

Carefully place the browned meatballs into the skillet with the heated barbecue sauce. Gently stir to guarantee the meatballs are well coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

6. Serve:

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm. These zesty barbecue meatballs can be enjoyed on their own, as a sandwich filling, or served alongside mashed potatoes or rice. Enjoy!

Creamy Alfredo Sauce Meatballs

Creamy Alfredo Sauce Meatballs make for a comforting and indulgent dish that takes classic meatballs to a new level. Combining tender meatballs with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious Italian-inspired meal.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix everything together with your hands until fully combined, ensuring not to overwork the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.

6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Carefully return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Coat them in the creamy Alfredo sauce, making sure they are fully submerged and coated. Let them simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.

7. Serve:

Once the meatballs are cooked and coated in sauce, remove from heat. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or enjoy them on their own, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy Alfredo sauce meatballs!

Spicy Arrabbiata Meatballs

Spicy Arrabbiata Meatballs offer a bold and zesty twist on traditional meatballs, infused with the rich flavors of the classic Italian arrabbiata sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta or can be served on its own as a spicy appetizer, making it a great choice for those who love a kick in their meals.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to combine the ingredients thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet or plate.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to verify they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them for around 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned all over. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

4. Make the Arrabbiata Sauce:

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the canned crushed tomatoes along with the red chili flakes. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer.

5. Add Fresh Basil:

Stir in the chopped fresh basil into the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 3-5 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt or chili flakes if desired.

6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Carefully place the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the arrabbiata sauce, making sure they are fully coated. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes, so they absorb the spicy flavors and the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Serve the Dish:

Once cooked, serve the Spicy Arrabbiata Meatballs hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy them with pasta, crusty bread, or on their own for a delightful, spicy experience.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors, balancing tangy sweetness with savory richness. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or as a main course served with rice or noodles. The juicy meatballs are coated in a bright and flavorful sweet and sour sauce that is sure to please your taste buds.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated without overworking the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and arrange them on a baking sheet or plate.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, cooking for approximately 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them onto a plate.

4. Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

In the same skillet, combine brown sugar, cider vinegar, and ketchup. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

5. Add Vegetables and Pineapple:

Once the sauce is simmering, add the diced red bell pepper and pineapple chunks. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet, ensuring they are coated in the sweet and sour sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to soak up the flavor.

7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.

8. Serve:

Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, serve warm over rice or noodles. Enjoy the sweet and tangy explosion of flavors!

Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs

Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs are a deliciously savory dish that combines tender meatballs with a sweet and flavorful teriyaki sauce. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or alongside rice and vegetables for a satisfying main course, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The sticky glaze is a delightful complement to the juicy meatballs, making each bite irresistible.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients together using your hands until evenly combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate, ensuring they are not touching.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes. Turn the meatballs occasionally to brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate.

4. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:

In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, and water. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Once the sauce is simmering, gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet while stirring. Continue to cook for another couple of minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.

6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the teriyaki sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce, ensuring they are packed with flavor. Let them simmer together for an additional 3-4 minutes.

7. Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve the teriyaki glazed meatballs hot, either on their own or over a bed of rice or vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Pesto Sauce Meatballs

Pesto Sauce Meatballs are a fantastic fusion of flavors, bringing together savory meatballs and the vibrant, aromatic taste of fresh basil pesto. Perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta, these meatballs will impress your guests with their herbaceous punch and delightful tenderness. The pesto sauce not only coats the meatballs perfectly but also elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey or beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients together using your hands until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place the shaped meatballs onto a baking sheet or plate, making sure they are spaced apart.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally to brown them evenly on all sides. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate.

4. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the prepared pesto sauce and stir to warm it up. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the warmed pesto sauce. Gently coat the meatballs with the sauce, allowing them to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Serve the pesto sauce meatballs warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes if desired. These meatballs are perfect over pasta or as a standalone appetizer. Enjoy!