In a large, deep skillet, heat up the olive and and butter. Add the sugar, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, 1-2 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and parsley. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook until the flavors meld, about 20 minutes (or as long as it takes you to make the meatballs). Taste and season with salt and pepper.
While the sauce is simmering, make the meatballs. In a large bowl, mix together the panko, 1 flat leaf parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the milk and whisk in the egg. Add the beef and pork and mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork. Form into tiny dime sized meatballs, wetting your hands lightly as you go along so the meat doesn’t stick to your hands. Place the meatballs on a tray.
Gently place the meatballs into the simmering sauce. If there isn’t enough room for the meatballs to be covered by the sauce, add a bit of water or stock to ensure all the meatballs are fully covered. Simmer covered for 10-15 minutes or until the meatballs are tender and cooked through (cut one open to check).
While the meatballs are simmering, cook the pasta according to the package in a large pot of salted water.
When al dente, drain well and top with the mini meatball sauce, stirring to combine everything together. Enjoy topped with parmesan, chili flakes, and extra flat leaf parsley if desired.
