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Polpette al Sugo Recipe: Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
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ANNA'S KITCHEN

Polpette al Sugo Recipe: Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

There’s something magical about the way Mama makes her meatballs. Each one is hand-rolled with care, combining the perfect blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, wine, fresh parsley, garlic, and a touch of grated cheese.

By Anna Prezio

 |  

@thatladyanna

December 16, 2024

By Anna Prezio

Ingredients

  • 3

    lbs ground beef

  • 1/2

    cup milk

  • 3

    sprigs parsley, finely chopped

  • 2

    cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4

    cup grated Parmesan

  • 8

    eggs

  • 2½

    cups breadcrumbs

  • 1/4

    cup Gratsi Red Wine

  • 1

    cup avocado oil (for searing)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

SHOP GRATSI RED

TOTAL TIME

1 hour

16 servings

SHOP GRATSI RED

Mama says it’s not just about feeding the stomach but the soul. And with every bite, you can taste the care and heritage that make these meatballs a true family treasure There's nothing more Italian than a pot of meatballs simmering all afternoon — explore another beloved nonna recipe with Frittelle di Patate e Cipolle, or discover the story behind Polpette al Sugo by Nonna Rosetta. For something to round out the table, try this beautiful Stuffed Chicken Roll, and pour a glass of Gratsi White Wine with every bite.

A wooden board with ground meat, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, fresh parsley, black pepper, bread crumbs, salt, and a Gratsi-branded box and tin in a kitchen setting.

STEP 1: Mix the Meatball Mixture

Mix: Combine all ingredients (except avocado oil) in a large bowl. Mix gently to keep meatballs tender.

STEP 2: Shape the Meatballs

Shape: Form into 3-ounce meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

A baking sheet lined with parchment paper holds rows of uncooked meatballs mixed with herbs, ready to be cooked. A wooden bowl and a hand are visible in the background.

STEP 3: Sear the Meatballs

Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs on all sides until golden, 1–2 minutes per side.

Meatballs frying in a pan of hot oil on a stove, with more uncooked meatballs on a tray in the background, and a bowl of colorful fruit and a yellow pitcher on the counter.

STEP 4: Simmer in the Marinara

Simmer: Transfer meatballs to simmering marinara sauce. Cover and cook on low-medium heat for 20 minutes.

A plate of meatballs covered in tomato sauce is being served with a large spoon. A person wearing a floral apron is in the background.

STEP 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or enjoy on their own. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley!

An older woman with white hair and glasses smiles in a kitchen, holding a large plate of meatballs covered in tomato sauce and grated cheese. She wears a yellow apron, and kitchen appliances are visible in the background.

The market

Someone pours Gratsi Red Wine from a sleek black box into a clear glass, both showing the Gratsi logo, set against a white background.
Red Wine

$39

A person pours Gratsi White Wine, a zero sugar, low-sulfite boxed wine, from a large Gratsi box into a clear Gratsi-branded glass on a wooden block.
White Wine

$39

A hand holds a Gratsi Rosé Wine box with black text and a red spout against a white background, suggesting a refreshing, zero sugar experience.
Rosé Wine

$39