Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved Italian-American dish that’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This recipe features tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, and topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners, this classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• Salt, for pasta water
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate or tray.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil.
2. Add the meatballs in a single layer, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides. (They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.)
3. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar (if using), basil, and oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce

1. Add the browned meatballs to the tomato sauce.
2. Simmer for 15-20 minutes over low heat, until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened and developed flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti

1. While the sauce and meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water.
2. Drain the spaghetti, then return it to the pot or transfer to a large serving bowl.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place a portion of spaghetti on each plate, ladling the sauce and meatballs over the top.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Spaghetti and Meatballs

• For extra tenderness, use a mix of beef and pork for the meatballs.
• Don’t overmix the meatball ingredients, as this can make the meatballs tough.
• Simmering the meatballs in the sauce enhances their flavor and keeps them moist.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 6g

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