Italian Pork Sausage with Pancetta Meatballs in Sauce

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering recipe for Italian Pork Sausage with Pancetta Meatballs in Sauce. These savory meatballs are a delightful blend of mild Italian pork sausage, rich pancetta, and aromatic herbs and spices, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Paired with a luscious homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, and a hint of red wine, these meatballs are simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Whether served as a hearty main course or as a delectable appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

With simple yet elegant ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing the authentic taste of Italy right to your table. Buon appetito!

Italian Pork Sausage with Pancetta Meatballs in Sauce

Ingredients:

You’ll need for about 12 meatballs

1.5-lb of mild Italian pork sauce meat removed from the casing

1/2-lb pancetta cut thick

1-large egg

1/2-cup chopped roasted red bell pepper (from a jar is perfect) chopped fine

1/2-cup pecorino Romano

1/2-cup plain bread crumbs

4-garlic cloves minced

1/2-cup chopped fresh parsley

For the sauce:

2-28 oz can whole plum tomatoes crushed with your hands

2-garlic cloves

1/3-cup chopped onion

1/2-cup of water

1/3-cup red wine (optional), chianti works

Instructions:

Cut the Pancetta into small cubes then add it with the garlic to a food processor and pulse until it is ground up

Add that and all the meatball ingredients to a bowl and mix it all together with your hands

Coat your hands with olive oil then form golf ball size meatballs

Place them on a baking sheet and into a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes

SAUCE-

Add 2-tbs of olive oil with the garlic and onion to a large skillet large enough to hold the whole recipe or use a pot.

When it starts to sizzle add your hand crushed tomatoes, water, wine on medium heat

When this is comes to a boil add the meatballs then lower the heat to a simmer

Continue finishing the meatballs in the sauce turning often for 45 minutes

Get a plate add some meatballs with the sauce finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and some chopped basil

I use mild Italian sausage but hot is fine to use too.

Notes:

Meatball Ingredients: This recipe combines mild Italian pork sausage with pancetta, providing a rich and savory base for the meatballs. The addition of chopped roasted red bell pepper, pecorino Romano cheese, garlic, parsley, and bread crumbs adds depth of flavor and texture to the meatballs.

Sauce Ingredients: The sauce is crafted from whole plum tomatoes, garlic, onion, water, and optionally red wine, such as Chianti. These ingredients create a robust and aromatic sauce that complements the meatballs perfectly.

Preparation of Meatballs: The pancetta is ground in a food processor along with garlic, enhancing the meatball mixture with its distinctive flavor. All meatball ingredients are combined in a bowl and formed into golf ball-sized meatballs, ensuring uniformity in size for even cooking.

Baking Process: The meatballs are baked in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes, providing a quick initial cooking phase that helps to retain moisture and flavor.

Sauce Preparation: The sauce is prepared in a large skillet or pot, starting with olive oil, garlic, and onion. Hand-crushed tomatoes, water, and optional red wine are added to the skillet and brought to a boil before reducing the heat to a simmer.

Finishing the Meatballs: Once the sauce reaches a simmer, the partially cooked meatballs are added and allowed to finish cooking in the sauce. This slow simmering process infuses the meatballs with the flavors of the sauce while ensuring they are cooked through.

Final Touches: Before serving, the meatballs and sauce are garnished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and chopped basil, adding a fresh and aromatic finish to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions: Hot Italian sausage can be used instead of mild for those who prefer a spicier kick. Additionally, jarred roasted red bell peppers can be used for convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions: These meatballs can be served as a main course alongside pasta or crusty bread, or as an appetizer for gatherings and parties. They are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and accompaniments.

Make-Ahead Tips: The meatballs and sauce can be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator for a convenient weeknight meal or entertaining. Simply reheat and assemble before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Meatballs:

Sauce:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use hot Italian pork sausage instead of mild?

Yes, you can use hot Italian pork sausage if you prefer a spicier flavor in your meatballs.

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

While pancetta has a distinct flavor, bacon can be used as a substitute if pancetta is unavailable. However, the flavor profile may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use pecorino Romano cheese, or can I use a different cheese?

Pecorino Romano adds a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with Parmesan or another hard cheese if preferred.

Can I skip the red wine in the sauce?

Yes, the red wine is optional.

If you prefer not to use it, you can omit it from the recipe without significantly affecting the flavor.

How long should I bake the meatballs in the oven?

Bake the meatballs in a preheated 400°F oven for approximately 15 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor, you can substitute it with dried parsley if fresh is not available.

However, adjust the quantity accordingly, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What size should the chopped roasted red bell peppers be?

Chop the roasted red bell peppers into fine pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the meatballs for flavor.

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

While crushed tomatoes provide a fresh flavor, you can use store-bought tomato sauce as a convenient alternative.

Adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

How long should I simmer the meatballs in the sauce?

Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for approximately 45 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and infused with the flavors of the sauce.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them before baking.

When ready to use, simply thaw and bake according to the recipe instructions.