This rich and flavorful dish features tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for serving over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread!

Ingredients
For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tsp honey or sugar (to balance acidity)
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Shape into small meatballs.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sear meatballs until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, heat olive oil. Sauté onions until soft, then add garlic. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili flakes, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, honey, and beef broth. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Simmer the Meatballs: Return meatballs to the sauce. Cover and let them simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add heavy cream in the last 5 minutes if using.
Serve & Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.