Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Timeless Italian Favorite
A plate of Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs, which consists of precisely cooked spaghetti and tender, juicy meatballs covered in a thick tomato sauce, is the epitome of comfort. This is an easy, tasty meal that will quickly become a family favourite. For the perfect Italian dinner, serve it with crusty bread and freshly grated Parmesan.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
½ lb (225g) ground pork (or substitute with more beef)
½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz (800g) canned crushed tomatoes
15 oz (425g) tomato sauce
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
1 lb (450g) spaghetti
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Essential Utensils:
Big basin for mixing
Baking sheet (for meatball baking)
Dutch oven or large skillet
Wooden spoon
Colander for pasta pots
Time Spent Preparing:
20 minutes for preparation
35 minutes to cook
55 minutes in total.
Directions:
Prepare the meatballs:
Ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano should all be combined in a big bowl. Don't overwork the meat; mix it lightly. Form into 20–24 1.5-inch meatballs.
Option 1: Pan-Fry In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Set aside the meatballs after they have been browned on all sides (3–4 minutes total).
Option 2 (Bake): Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 18 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Get the sauce ready:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds after the onion has softened (3–4 minutes). Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, sugar, basil, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes.
Pasta preparation:
Involves boiling spaghetti in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente. Set aside ½ cup of pasta water after draining.
Mix & Serve:
Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional five minutes. Add pasta water as necessary and toss spaghetti with sauce. Add some Parmesan and fresh basil as garnish.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Calories: 520
Carbs: 62g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Pro Tip for Perfect Meatballs:
Soak breadcrumbs in 2 tablespoons milk before combining to create extra-flavorful, juicy meatballs. Additionally, before simmering in sauce, fry the meatballs until they have a caramelised exterior. Easy homemade spaghetti and meatballs recipe with rich tomato sauce.
