Are the meatballs make-ahead friendly?

Yes—meatballs and sauce taste even better the next day. Make the full recipe, cool, refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving.

Why bake instead of simmering them raw in the sauce?

Baking keeps them tender and helps them hold their shape, plus it removes excess fat before they go into the sauce.

Can I freeze it with the pasta?

It’s best frozen without pasta. Cooked pasta can turn soft or grainy after freezing; freeze the sauce and meatballs, then make fresh pasta when serving.

basil Archives

Italian Bolognese Meatballs

ByDiana Rattray November 29, 2023March 21, 2026

Total Time: 2

Juicy meatballs simmered in a hearty Bolognese-style tomato sauce with Parmesan and vegetables.

BLT Salad With Maple Dijon Dressing

ByDiana Rattray November 28, 2023March 22, 2026

Total Time: 15

An apple juice and Dijon vinaigrette adds zesty flavor to this simple BLT salad. Add a handful of toasted croutons, and enjoy!

Basic Baked Meatballs (Oven-Baked)

ByDiana Rattray November 22, 2023December 15, 2025

Total Time: 35

These baked meatballs are easy, evenly browned, and mess-free—no skillet required.