Sausage with Pancetta Meatballs in Sauce

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Sausage with Pancetta Meatballs in Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 4 ounces pancetta, finely diced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, diced pancetta, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
   2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
   3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   2. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
   3. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
   3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
   4. Stir in the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
   1. Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce.
   2. Cover and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 20-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve:
   1. Serve the meatballs and sauce over your choice of pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread.
   2. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious sausage with pancetta meatballs in sauce!