Spaghetti with meatballs is a classic Italian dish that holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would make this dish for our family gatherings and it was always a hit. The aroma of the simmering tomato sauce and the sizzling meatballs would fill the house, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. As I got older, I learned how to make this dish myself and it has become a staple in my own kitchen. Not only is it delicious and comforting, but it also brings back fond memories of my childhood. In this article, I will share my personal recipe for spaghetti with meatballs and explain why it is a must-try for any pasta lover.
Why This Recipe Works
There are many reasons why this recipe stands out and has become a family favorite. Here are just a few:
- The combination of homemade meatballs and a rich tomato sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- The use of fresh herbs and spices adds depth and complexity to the dish.
- The addition of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in the meatballs gives them a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
- The use of spaghetti as the pasta of choice allows the sauce to cling to the noodles, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prep and 1 hour to cook.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine all the ingredients together.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and let them cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti and enjoy!
My Pro Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
- To make the meatballs more tender, you can soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the mixture.
- If you have any leftover meatballs, you can freeze them for future use.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with this dish.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- A glass of red wine complements the flavors of the dish.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. When ready to use, simply thaw them and add them to the sauce to cook.
Q: Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought sauce if you’re short on time. However, I highly recommend making your own sauce for the best flavor.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This recipe is not only delicious and comforting, but it also allows for creativity and personalization. You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family and friends together in the kitchen to cook and bond over a delicious meal.
Your Turn
I hope you give this spaghetti with meatballs recipe a try and enjoy it as much as my family and I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Share your experience and any suggestions in the comments below. Buon appetito!
Classic Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine all the ingredients together.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and let them cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti and enjoy!
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