Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sausage, eggs, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, and red pepper (if using).

Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Shape the mixture into meatballs of your desired size.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bake the meatballs for approximately 15 minutes, or until they reach medium doneness. They will continue to cook in the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce: Dice the onion and carrot, or use a food processor for a finer chop.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and carrot and sauté until softened.

Stir in thyme and oregano and cook for another 2-3 minutes to release their flavors.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes.

Add sugar, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.

Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Gently add the baked meatballs to the sauce.

Let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to taste.