Spaghetti and Meatballs

Savor the time-honored comfort of spaghetti and meatballs, a dish that combines perfectly seasoned meatballs with a decadent tomato sauce and is served over soft spaghetti. This recipe calls for a filling and substantial supper that will appeal to both adults and children.

Tasting Notes

Expect a symphony of flavors as the succulent meatballs, seasoned to perfection, harmonize with the robust tomato sauce. The marriage of savory and slightly sweet notes will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Pot for boiling spaghetti
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
4. Make Tomato Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
7. Serve: Arrange the cooked spaghetti on a serving platter and top with the saucy meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

• For extra moist meatballs, consider adding a splash of milk to the meat mixture.
• Mix different ground meats for a unique flavor profile, such as beef, pork, and veal.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when baking meatballs to ensure even cooking.

Variations

• Try using turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the meatballs for a personalized touch.
• Substitute spaghetti with other pasta varieties like fettuccine or penne.

FAQs