Are you tired of the same old boring sauces with your meatballs? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with our collection of 20 creamy meatball sauce recipes. From classic Italian flavors to spicy and tangy twists, we’ve got something for every occasion and taste bud.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for your next dinner party, these creamy meatball sauces are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with their rich and indulgent flavors, they’ll leave everyone wanting more. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to elevate your meatball game!
Classic Italian Meatball Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatball Marinara Sauce Recipe
A staple of Italian cuisine, this hearty sauce is made with homemade meatballs and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat crushed tomatoes, garlic, and oregano in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve hot with pasta, on sub sandwiches, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Swedish Meatball Cream Sauce
Experience the classic comfort of Swedish meatballs paired with a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add beef broth and stir until combined.
8. Serve sauce with baked meatballs.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this bold and spicy sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve the sauce over cooked pasta, topped with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and savory garlic parmesan meatball sauce. This easy-to-make sauce is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper in a large saucepan.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the tomato sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Meatball Sauce
Slow Cooker BBQ Meatball Sauce Recipe
Transform your meatballs into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy-to-make Slow Cooker BBQ Meatball Sauce recipe. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual weeknight meals, this rich and tangy sauce is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the BBQ sauce.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are fully coated in the sauce.
4. Serve warm over your favorite pasta, rice, or as a dip for game-day snacks.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Tangy Honey Mustard Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or use as a dip with this sweet and tangy sauce, featuring honey mustard’s perfect balance of flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. If desired, add chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Remove from heat and use immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich Mushroom Gravy Meatball Sauce
This rich and savory sauce is perfect for elevating your meatballs or using as a topping for pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. A flavorful combination of sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and herbs creates a decadent gravy that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in beef broth and thyme. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs or subs with this bold and smoky chipotle sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce that combines the savory flavors of meatballs, Alfredo, and a hint of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound homemade or store-bought meatballs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add the meatballs to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatball Sauce
Sweet and Sour Meatball Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes with this tangy and sweet meatball sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Use as a sauce for pasta, meatballs, or as a dip for your favorite snacks!
Herb-Infused Tomato Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this flavorful and aromatic sauce that combines the richness of tomatoes, herbs, and meatballs. This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or pork
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, parsley, basil, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the baked meatballs to the tomato mixture and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta or meatballs with this creamy and aromatic Coconut Curry Meatball Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, curry powder, tomato paste, garlic, and salt.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for coating homemade meatballs or as a dipping sauce. This sweet and savory condiment is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let glaze cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Zesty Lemon Butter Meatball Sauce
Brighten up your pasta dishes or meatballs with this zesty and tangy sauce! This recipe combines the richness of butter, the brightness of lemon, and a hint of garlic for a flavorful condiment that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Whisk until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of sauce
This Zesty Lemon Butter Meatball Sauce is perfect for pasta, meatballs, or as a dip for bread. Enjoy!
Caramelized Onion Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or meatballs with this rich and flavorful caramelized onion sauce, infused with the savory taste of meatballs. This recipe is a game-changer for any meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound ground beef (or pork/beef combination)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon.
4. Form meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, and caramelized onions. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (30 minutes for caramelizing onions, 20-25 minutes for baking meatballs, and 10-15 minutes for simmering the sauce).
Roasted Red Pepper Meatball Sauce
Roasted Red Pepper Meatball Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes or use as a dipping sauce with this flavorful and vibrant red pepper meatball sauce. Roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness, while the meatballs add a savory depth.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop peppers into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
5. Form meat mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Simmer the peppers and meatballs together in a saucepan with a little water for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Meatball Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and flavorful sauce that combines the richness of peanut butter with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, ketchup, soy sauce, honey, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Nacho Meatball Sauce
Elevate your game day snacking with this creamy, cheesy, and savory meatball sauce that’s perfect for nachos or as a dip. This recipe combines the richness of meatballs with the comfort of melted cheese and the tanginess of nacho flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine meatballs, half-and-half, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, cilantro, and chili powder.
2. Whisk until smooth and heated through over low heat (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tikka Masala Meatball Sauce
Elevate your meatballs with the bold flavors of India! This Tikka Masala-inspired sauce adds a tangy, creamy twist to classic meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup tomato puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons garam masala powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, tomato puree, heavy cream, garam masala powder, lemon juice, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until warmed through.
3. Use the sauce immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
White Wine Garlic Butter Meatball Sauce
Transform your meatballs into a culinary masterpiece with this rich and flavorful white wine garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for serving over pasta, as a dipping sauce, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine and chicken broth; whisk to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in flour to thicken sauce further, if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering creamy meatball sauce recipes to elevate any occasion! From classic Italian marinara to tangy honey mustard, and from spicy arrabbiata to rich mushroom gravy, these sauces will add a new level of flavor to your pasta dishes, subs, or as a dipping option. Whether you’re hosting a party, having friends over, or just want to spice up your meal routine, this article has got you covered with a wide range of creative and delicious meatball sauce recipes.
