Meatballs are a classic dish loved by many. They’re tasty on their own, but the right sauce can take them to a whole new level.

There are many delicious sauces that pair well with meatballs, from traditional tomato-based options to creamy and tangy choices.

This article will show you 20 meatball sauce recipes to try at home. You’ll find a variety of flavors to suit different tastes and occasions.

Whether you’re making meatballs for a family dinner or a party, these sauces will add extra flavor and appeal to your dish.

1. Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a classic choice for meatballs. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.

Add canned crushed tomatoes, some herbs like basil and oregano, and a pinch of sugar. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to develop flavors.

For extra richness, stir in a pat of butter at the end.

This simple sauce pairs perfectly with beef, pork, or turkey meatballs. Serve over pasta or in a sandwich for a tasty meal.

2. Swedish Cream Sauce

Swedish cream sauce is a rich and velvety accompaniment for meatballs. To make it, you’ll need butter, flour, beef broth, and heavy cream.

Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until it turns golden brown. This creates a roux, which thickens the sauce.

Slowly stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Add a touch of Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard for extra flavor. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. The result is a smooth, creamy sauce that perfectly complements Swedish meatballs.

3. Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce is a fiery Italian classic that pairs wonderfully with meatballs. You can make this spicy tomato-based sauce easily at home.

Start by sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and a splash of red wine. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens.

For extra flavor, toss in some fresh basil leaves near the end of cooking.

Serve your homemade arrabbiata sauce over pasta and meatballs for a zesty meal.

You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste. This versatile sauce also works great with pizza or as a dipping sauce.

4. Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is a rich and creamy topping for meatballs. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg.

Pour the warm Alfredo sauce over your cooked meatballs and enjoy.

This sauce pairs well with beef, chicken, or turkey meatballs. You can serve it over pasta for a complete meal.

5. Szechuan Sauce

Szechuan sauce brings a spicy kick to your meatballs. This sauce blends chili peppers, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns for a bold flavor.

You can make Szechuan sauce at home or buy it pre-made.

To create your own, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, and ground Sichuan peppercorns.

For meatballs, simmer them in the sauce until cooked through. The sauce will thicken and coat the meatballs nicely.

Serve your Szechuan meatballs over rice or noodles. Add some steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

6. Sweet and Sour Sauce

Sweet and sour sauce adds a tangy kick to your meatballs. To make it, mix sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Add ketchup, soy sauce, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until it thickens.

Pour this sauce over your cooked meatballs and let them simmer together for a few minutes.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or the sourness with extra vinegar. This versatile sauce works well with beef, turkey, or pork meatballs.

7. BBQ Glaze

BBQ glaze gives meatballs a sweet and tangy flavor. You can make it with ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar as the base. Add Worcestershire sauce and spices like garlic powder for depth.

Mix all ingredients in a saucepan. Heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.

Pour the warm glaze over cooked meatballs.

For extra flavor, brush the glaze on meatballs before baking. Then add more sauce after cooking. This creates a sticky, caramelized coating.

Try adding liquid smoke or chipotle peppers to your BBQ glaze for a smoky kick. Honey or maple syrup can replace some of the brown sugar for natural sweetness.

8. Greek Keftedes Sauce

Greek keftedes sauce is a flavorful complement to traditional Greek meatballs. You can make a simple yet delicious sauce using tomatoes as the base.

Start by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until golden.

Add canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, and oregano to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.

For extra richness, crumble some feta cheese into the sauce near the end of cooking. This adds a tangy, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.

Serve your keftedes in this warm sauce for a comforting Greek-inspired meal. The sauce’s robust flavors will enhance the taste of your meatballs.

9. Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor to meatballs. You can make this Japanese-inspired sauce easily at home.

Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic in a small pan.

Add a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Simmer it for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Pour the warm sauce over your cooked meatballs.

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of mirin or sake to the sauce. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Serve your teriyaki meatballs with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

10. Tomato Basil Sauce

Tomato basil sauce is a classic choice for meatballs. It’s tangy, herby, and full of fresh flavors.

To make this sauce, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil.

Add tomato passata or puree, along with a pinch of sugar and salt.

Throw in some fresh basil leaves and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes.

The result is a vibrant, aromatic sauce that pairs perfectly with your meatballs.

You can serve this sauce over pasta or use it to coat your meatballs for a delicious main dish. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.

11. Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce adds a tangy twist to meatballs. You can make this sauce with jellied cranberry sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar.

Mix these ingredients in a pot over medium heat until smooth.

Add your cooked meatballs to the sauce. Let them simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring now and then. The meatballs will soak up the flavors as they cook.

For extra zip, try adding orange juice or chili sauce to the mix. This creates a sweet and spicy combo that works great with beef or turkey meatballs.

12. Dijon Mustard Sauce

Dijon mustard sauce adds a tangy kick to your meatballs. To make it, melt butter in a pan and whisk in flour to create a roux.

Slowly add beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Mix in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Let the sauce simmer until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour this creamy, zesty sauce over your cooked meatballs.

You can serve these Dijon-coated meatballs over noodles or rice. They also work great as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.

13. Blue Cheese Dressing

Blue cheese dressing is a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with meatballs. You can make it by mixing crumbled blue cheese with yogurt or sour cream. Add a splash of buttermilk for extra flavor and to thin the consistency.

For a quick version, blend blue cheese with mayonnaise and a touch of vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to taste.

This dressing works great as a dipping sauce for buffalo chicken meatballs. Its cool, rich flavor balances out the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.

You can also drizzle it over beef or pork meatballs for a gourmet twist.

14. Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri sauce adds a zesty kick to your meatballs. This Argentinian sauce blends fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil.

To make it, mix chopped parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

You can use chimichurri two ways with meatballs. Mix some into the meat before cooking for extra flavor. Or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.

Chimichurri works great with beef meatballs. Its bright, herby taste cuts through the richness of the meat. Try it at your next cookout or family dinner.

15. Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Garlic herb butter sauce adds rich flavor to meatballs. To make it, melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes.

Pour the warm sauce over your cooked meatballs and toss gently to coat. The butter will cling to the meatballs, infusing them with garlicky, herby goodness.

This versatile sauce pairs well with many types of meatballs. Try it with classic beef, turkey, or even vegetarian versions.

16. Honey Garlic Sauce

Honey garlic sauce is a tasty choice for your meatballs. It combines sweet and savory flavors that complement the meat perfectly.

To make this sauce, you’ll need honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ketchup. Mix these ingredients in a slow cooker or pan.

If using a slow cooker, add frozen meatballs and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 5-6 hours. For stovetop cooking, brown the meatballs first, then simmer them in the sauce.

The result is sticky, flavorful meatballs that are great as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them over rice or with toothpicks for easy snacking.

17. Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki sauce is a creamy, tangy Greek dip that pairs perfectly with meatballs. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start with Greek yogurt as the base. Add grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the best flavor, let the sauce chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Serve tzatziki sauce alongside your meatballs for dipping. It also works great as a topping or spread on meatball sandwiches.

18. Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce brings a spicy kick to your meatballs. You can easily make it at home with hot sauce, butter, and vinegar.

Mix melted butter with hot sauce and a splash of vinegar. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce.

Pour the sauce over cooked meatballs and toss to coat. You can also use it as a dipping sauce on the side.

Buffalo sauce works great with chicken meatballs. Try adding blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor. Serve with celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic buffalo wing experience.

19. Curry Sauce

Curry sauce adds a flavorful twist to meatballs. You can make it by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in oil. Then add tomatoes and cook until soft.

Mix in curry powder, cumin, coriander, and other spices. Pour in some broth or coconut milk for a creamy texture. Simmer the sauce until it thickens.

For a smooth curry sauce, blend the ingredients. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.

Serve the meatballs in this rich, aromatic sauce over rice or with naan bread.

20. Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor to meatballs. You can make it easily by blending basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

To use pesto with meatballs, mix it into the meat before cooking for extra flavor throughout. You can also use it as a topping or mix it into a cream sauce.

For a twist, try sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto. These variations offer different flavors while keeping the same creamy, herb-packed texture.

Pesto pairs well with chicken, turkey, or beef meatballs. It’s a versatile sauce that works in many dishes, from pasta to sandwiches.

Essential Ingredients for Meatball Sauces

Great meatball sauces rely on a few key ingredients to create rich flavors and textures. Tomatoes form the base of many classic sauces, while herbs and spices add depth and complexity.

The Role of Tomatoes in Meatball Sauces

Tomatoes are the star of many meatball sauces. They add a tangy sweetness and vibrant color. You can use fresh tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes, or tomato paste.

For a quick sauce, mix ketchup with other ingredients. Try this simple recipe:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 minced garlic cloves

Whisk these together and pour over meatballs in a slow cooker. The sauce will coat the meatballs as they cook.

For a more complex flavor, start with olive oil, onions, and garlic. Add canned tomatoes and beef broth. This creates a rich base for your sauce.

Using Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices take your meatball sauce from good to great. They add layers of flavor that complement the meat and tomatoes.

Common herbs for meatball sauces include:

• Basil
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Thyme

These work well in tomato-based sauces. For a cream sauce, try adding dill or chives.

Spices can transform your sauce. Garlic is a must-have. It adds depth and aroma.

Ginger works well in Asian-inspired sauces. For heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Don’t forget salt and black pepper. They enhance all the other flavors in your sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Meatball Sauces

The key to great meatball sauces lies in mastering a few basic cooking methods. Proper simmering and thickening techniques will help you create rich, flavorful sauces that coat your meatballs perfectly.

Simmering vs. Boiling

Simmering is best for meatball sauces. Keep the heat low and watch for small bubbles. This gentle cooking method brings out flavors without making the sauce too thin.

Boiling can make sauces watery and cause ingredients to separate. It may also lead to scorching at the bottom of the pan.

To simmer, bring your sauce to a boil first. Then lower the heat until you see just a few bubbles rising to the surface. Stir often to prevent sticking.

For tomato-based sauces, simmer uncovered to let excess liquid evaporate. This concentrates the flavors.

Cream-based sauces need gentle heat to prevent curdling. Keep them covered and stir regularly.

Thickening Methods

You can thicken meatball sauces in several ways. Each method affects the texture and flavor differently.

Reduction: Simply simmer the sauce longer to evaporate liquid. This intensifies flavors but takes more time.

Roux: Mix equal parts flour and butter. Cook briefly, then whisk into your sauce.

This works well for cream sauces.

Cornstarch slurry: Mix cornstarch with cold water. Stir into simmering sauce until it thickens.

This is quick and doesn’t change the flavor much.

Cheese: Add grated hard cheeses like Parmesan to thicken and flavor your sauce. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cheese grainy.

Pureed vegetables: Blend cooked onions, carrots, or other veggies into your sauce.

This adds nutrients and a silky texture.