Spicy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Spicy meatballs in tomato sauce are a bold and flavourful appetiser that combines tender, spiced meatballs with a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for sharing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that works equally well as a starter or a main course.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings People

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

500 g minced beef or lamb
1 large egg free range
50 g breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp chilli flakes adjust to taste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
salt to taste
pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
400 g chopped tomatoes canned
1 tbsp tomato purée
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chilli flakes crushed optional
salt to taste
pepper to taste
basil leaves Fresh for garnish

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, chilli flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a small golf ball.
500 g minced beef, 1 large egg, 50 g breadcrumbs, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tsp chilli flakes, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, salt, pepper
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking them for about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
2 tbsp olive oil
In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion, 2 cloves garlic
Add the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, sugar, oregano and crushed chilli flakes (if using) to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
400 g chopped tomatoes, 1 tbsp tomato purée, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp chilli flakes, salt, pepper
Return the browned meatballs to the pan, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or as a standalone appetiser.
basil leaves

Notes

This dish is the perfect balance of spice and savoury richness, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these spicy meatballs will always hit the spot!

Nutrition