Beef and Sausage Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

By tschnet1

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (at least 90% lean)
• 1/2 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• large clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp tomato pate
• 1 15-ox can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tsp sugar
• grated parmesan, fresh basil, crusty bread and green salad, for serving

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl, gently mix together the beef, sausage, red pepper and 1/4 tsp salt until combined, and shape into 16 balls (about 1 1/2" each).

Heat the oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs, turning often, until lightly browned, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer to paper towel-lined plates.

Reduce heat to medium and drain all but 1 tbsp oil from the skillet. Add the onion, garlic, oregano and 1/4 tsp salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar and 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp water. Add the meatballs and gently simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Uncover and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, 18 to 20 minutes. Top with Parmesan and basil, and serve with crusty bread anda green salad, if desired.