Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Comforting Delight

There’s something magical about the aroma of spaghetti and meatballs wafting through the house. Picture this: a pot bubbling away, rich tomato sauce simmering while tender meatballs float like little flavor bombs, waiting to be devoured. The scene is set for a meal that sings comfort with every bite, bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners.

Now, let me take you on a nostalgic journey where spaghetti and meatballs were not just a meal but a special occasion. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and the sound of clinking plates as we all gathered around her oversized dining table. It’s the perfect dish for family reunions or cozy date nights, promising an explosion of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.

I still chuckle at the time I tried to impress my friends with this recipe; let’s just say they didn’t mind licking their plates clean!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Choose high-quality pasta for great texture; al dente is key for that perfect bite.

• Ground Beef: Aim for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy meatballs that won’t dry out.

• Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor; they help bind your meatballs perfectly.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty richness; avoid pre-grated varieties if possible.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor in both the sauce and meatballs.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; crush them yourself for better texture control.

• Herbs (Basil and Oregano): Fresh herbs bring brightness to your sauce; dried can work in a pinch.

• Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness; yellow onions are commonly used but feel free to experiment.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until combined but be careful not to overwork it.

Shape Those Meatballs: With slightly damp hands, form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—about 1.5 inches in diameter. This prevents sticking and keeps them juicy.

Sear the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add meatballs in batches until browned on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per batch—then transfer them to a plate.

Create Your Sauce Base: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until translucent and fragrant—around 5 minutes—then stir in crushed canned tomatoes along with more garlic and herbs.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Carefully return the browned meatballs to the skillet with sauce. Simmer everything together on low heat for about 20 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Cook Your Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss gently with olive oil.

Now you’re ready! Plate your spaghetti generously topped with those glorious meatballs and ladle over some heavenly sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

Enjoy every delightful forkful of this spaghetti and meatballs creation!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the meatballs first, then prepare the sauce while boiling the spaghetti. This method ensures everything is hot and ready at once, creating a seamless dining experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add some spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting with cheeses can also bring exciting flavor twists to your sauce and meatballs.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through to maintain texture.

My best friend once declared my spaghetti and meatballs as “better than grandma’s,” which filled me with pride and laughter. It’s amazing how food can create such cherished memories!

FAQ

How do I make gluten-free spaghetti and meatballs?

Use gluten-free pasta alternatives like rice or quinoa pasta for this dish.

Can I freeze spaghetti and meatballs?

Yes, freeze them separately in airtight containers for easy reheating later.

What’s the secret to juicy meatballs?

Adding moisture from soaked bread or using ground pork keeps them juicy and flavorful.

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Spaghetti and Meatballs

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Spaghetti and meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you back to cherished moments around the dinner table. With easy-to-follow instructions and accessible ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also memorable.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; brown meatballs on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per batch. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, remaining garlic, and herbs; stir well.
4. Return meatballs to the skillet; simmer on low for 20 minutes.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente; drain and toss with olive oil.
6. Serve spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce; garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg