Spaghetti and Meatballs

Introduction

Indulge in the classic comfort food with Spaghetti and Meatballs, a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together savory meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a go-to for a cozy homemade meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Spaghetti and Meatballs are a timeless combination loved by many for its delicious flavors and comforting qualities. This recipe allows you to create a homemade version of this Italian-inspired dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground Italian Sausage
• 1 lb ground beef
• ¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup minced onion
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 tablespoons Italian parsley finely chopped
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 lb spaghetti noodles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ medium onion finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• Grated fresh parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley or basil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Combine Italian sausage, ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, oregano, parsley, and Parmesan Cheese in a large bowl.
3. Roll meat mixture into meatballs and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. Saute onion in olive oil, add garlic, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer.
6. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Serve over cooked spaghetti, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

How to Serve Spaghetti and Meatballs

Serve the Spaghetti and Meatballs hot, with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Spaghetti and Meatballs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Tips to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs

• Use a combination of Italian sausage and ground beef for a flavorful mix.
• Make sure to season the meat mixture well with salt, pepper, and herbs for a tasty result.
• Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.

Variation

For a healthier version, use turkey or chicken meat instead of beef and sausage. You can also swap traditional spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch? Yes, but homemade meatballs have more flavor and texture.
2. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, once baked, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months.
3. What other herbs can I add to the meatballs for extra flavor? You can try adding basil, thyme, or rosemary for different herb profiles in the meatballs.