Creamy Tomato Basil Meatballs

These creamy tomato basil meatballs bring together a delightful blend of beef and pork with the sweet tang of sundried tomatoes and the fresh brightness of basil. The rich, creamy tomato sauce clings to each juicy meatball, creating a comforting meal that feels both classic and a little bit special. Perfect for dinner any night of the week, this recipe has quickly become a favorite for its balance of robust flavors and smooth texture.

I first made this recipe on a quiet Sunday afternoon and my family could not stop raving about the sauce. Now it’s a regular request even with busy schedules.

Ingredients

• Ground beef and pork mix: offers a juicy and flavorful base for the meatballs Choose freshly ground meat if possible for best texture
• Sun dried tomatoes: add concentrated tomato flavor and a bit of chewiness Look for those packed in oil for richer taste
• Fresh basil leaves: bring a fragrant herbal note that brightens the dish Pick vibrant green leaves without brown edges
• Crushed tomatoes: form the heart of the sauce Choose good quality canned tomatoes for a natural sweetness and balance
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce luxuriously creamy without overpowering the tomato flavor Try to use fresh cream for best results
• Parmesan cheese: adds a subtle salty richness Sprinkle in finely grated for even melting
• Onion and garlic: provide foundational savory aromas Use yellow onions and fresh garlic cloves for depth

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat a little oil over medium heat and cook chopped onions slowly until translucent and beginning to brown This gentle cooking builds a sweet base for the sauce Add minced garlic late in this stage so it does not burn, stirring for about one minute to release its fragrance

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl combine ground beef and pork with finely chopped sundried tomatoes fresh basil leaves beaten egg breadcrumbs grated parmesan salt and pepper Mix gently but thoroughly Avoid overworking the mixture to keep meatballs tender

Form and Brown the Meatballs:

Shape the mixture into uniform meatballs about one and a half inches in diameter Heat oil in a skillet over mediumhigh and brown the meatballs on all sides This step creates a crust that seals in juices and adds flavor Do not overcrowd the pan, brown in batches if needed

Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce:

In the same skillet add crushed tomatoes and simmer gently Scrape the browned bits off the bottom to incorporate those flavors Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for about five minutes

Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Return the browned meatballs to the sauce gently spooning sauce over and around them Cover and simmer on low for another fifteen minutes This ensures the meatballs cook through and soak in the creamy tomato basil sauce

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil and extra parmesan over the dish before serving Pair with pasta crusty bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal

I particularly love the sundried tomatoes in this recipe. They create a deeper tomato experience that feels both sunkissed and rich. One weekend I made a double batch and froze half. The next hectic week I just thawed and reheated it for a nofuss family dinner that tasted just as fresh.

Storage tips

Store leftover meatballs with sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave Stir occasionally so everything warms evenly

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef and pork for a lighter version Add a little olive oil to maintain moisture If you cannot find sundried tomatoes, use chopped roasted red peppers or omit and increase fresh tomato in the sauce Coconut cream can replace heavy cream to make it dairy free but expect a subtle coconut flavor

Serving suggestions

Serve over spaghetti for a classic meatball dinner or spoon over creamy polenta for a comforting twist A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness of the meatballs and sauce Garlic bread or warm focaccia bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce

These creamy tomato basil meatballs make weeknight dinners feel special and come together with simple steps. They reheat well and freeze nicely for makeahead meals.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What meats are used in these meatballs?

A combination of ground beef and pork gives the meatballs a balanced flavor and juiciness.

→ How is the tomato basil sauce made creamy?

The sauce is enriched with cream or a creamy ingredient that smooths out the tomato and basil flavors.

→ Can sun-dried tomatoes be substituted?

While sun-dried tomatoes add intense flavor, fresh or roasted tomatoes can be used as alternatives.

→ What herbs complement these meatballs?

Fresh basil is the main herb, providing a bright and aromatic note that pairs well with tomato.

→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Pasta, crusty bread, or a simple green salad make great accompaniments to balance the rich flavors.