Ingredients

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1 ½ lbs. ground beef (or 94% lean ground turkey or ground chicken)
½ onion, chopped
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (homemade or seasoned toasted panko)
1 large egg, beaten
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsps italian seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
2 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
4 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1–2 tbsps organic brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup beef stock (or chicken or vegetable stock)
3 tbsps white cooking wine, optional
1 cup freshly grated parmesan
handful of fresh basil leaves, optional
1 (16 oz.) package bucatini pasta

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
In a food processor, combine sautéed onion and garlic, ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and Italian seasoning. Pulse until well blended into a thick mixture.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using an ice cream scoop or spoon, rounding them with your hands.
In the same skillet, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove meatballs and set aside.

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Notes

You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce while simmering if desired.
Fresh basil can enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.

Author: Marry
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg