The Best One-Pot Meatballs

by | Feb 14, 2025 | Dinner

The Best One Pot Meatballs

 

There’s something truly comforting about a pot of homemade meatballs simmering in rich marinara sauce. This recipe is one of my go-tos because it’s simple, full of flavor, and doesn’t require extra pans or browning—just mix, drop, and let the sauce do all the work. As a busy mom, I need meals that are fuss-free yet still feel like a warm hug at dinnertime, and this one checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Wonder: No extra steps of searing or baking—just straight into the sauce!
  • Minimal Prep: A quick mix of ingredients and you’re ready to roll (literally).
  • Rich & Flavorful: The slow simmering process infuses the meatballs with deep, savory goodness.

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 (25oz) jars of your favorite homemade or store-bought spaghetti sauce (I love Mezzetta marinara or my homemade tomato sauce!)

Instructions:

  1. Pour your spaghetti sauce into a large pot and set it over medium-high heat to warm up.
  2. While the sauce heats, prepare the meatballs:
  3. Once the sauce reaches a boil, gently drop the meatballs in.
  4. Let them cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  5. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite pasta, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top!

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t skip the cheese! Parmesan adds richness and helps bind the meatballs together.
  • Want extra moisture? Swap half the beef for ground pork for a juicier texture.
  • Make ahead: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Just prepare and freeze them raw—then cook straight from frozen in your sauce.

A Dinner the Whole Family Will Love

I love serving these meatballs over spaghetti, but they’re also great in subs, over zucchini noodles, or even on their own with a side of crusty bread. No matter how you serve them, they always disappear fast! So if you’re looking for an easy, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table, this one’s a winner.

Let me know in the comments—what’s your go-to spaghetti sauce? Homemade or store-bought?

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