Classic Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, if pan-searing)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for garnish)