Marsala Marinara Braised Meatballs

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, minced garlic (2 cloves), chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overwork the meat.

3. 3

   Shape the mixture into meatballs, about

4. 4

   5 inches in diameter. You should get around 16-18 meatballs.

5. 5

   Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if desired. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

6. 6

   In the same skillet, pour in the Marsala wine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

7. 7

   Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the wine.

8. 8

   Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of the meatballs.

9. 9

   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh basil and grated parmesan if desired.

11. 11

    Serve hot with your favorite pasta, crusty bread, or over polenta.