Best Easy Polpette al Sugo Recipe

Tender meatballs simmered in tomato sauce are an Italian family dinner cornerstone. This high protein mediterranean dish is freezer-friendly and beloved by children and adults alike.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 345 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef 1 lb
  • ground pork 0.5 lb
  • Italian bread 1 cup
  • milk 0.5 cup
  • egg 2 pieces
  • Parmesan cheese 0.5 cup
  • fresh parsley 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • tomato sauce 3 cups
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 19 g 22%
Protein 25 g 29%
Fat 16 g 49%
Serving size 230g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the Italian bread in milk for 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid and crumble into a large mixing bowl for an even, soft base.

  2. 2

    Combine ground beef, ground pork, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley with the soaked bread. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix gently until just combined to avoid toughening the meat.

  3. 3

    Form meatballs about 2 inches in diameter, placing each on a tray. For consistent texture and cooking, keep sizes uniform.

  4. 4

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently so all sides are golden, but not cooked through—about 6 minutes total. Do not overcrowd the pan.

  5. 5

    Transfer browned meatballs to a wide pot. Pour in tomato sauce and sprinkle in dried oregano. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30–40 minutes, occasionally stirring gently, until meatballs are fully cooked and sauce thickens.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient in Polpette al Sugo is a blend of ground beef and ground pork. This combination delivers the classic Italian meatball flavor, rich texture, and authentic character, while Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs add depth and savory notes.
Q. How should I control heat for perfectly tender meatballs?
Browning the meatballs in olive oil over medium heat is crucial for locking in moisture and creating a flavorful crust without overcooking. Then, simmering them gently in tomato sauce over low heat ensures thorough, even cooking and keeps the meatballs tender.
Q. How can I prevent meatballs from becoming dense or dry?
To avoid tough meatballs, mix the ingredients gently—do not overwork the meat mixture. Soaking and crumbling Italian bread in milk provides moisture and a lighter texture. Uniform shaping and careful simmering in sauce also reduce the risk of dryness.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 345 kcal, with 25g of protein, 19g of carbs, and 16g of fat. Protein contributes about 29% of the total calories, making this dish high in protein and a robust choice for balanced meals.
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