Classic Spaghetti & Meatballs -

Few dishes evoke the warmth of home and the comfort of family gatherings quite like classic spaghetti and meatballs. This beloved Italian-American dish has transcended kitchens and cultural borders, becoming a staple on dining tables around the world. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures have made it a go-to meal for generations, encapsulating the essence of hearty, home-cooked comfort.

Classic Spaghetti & Meatballs

Discover the warmth of home cooking with classic spaghetti and meatballs, a timeless Italian-American dish perfect for family gatherings. This rich, comforting meal combines flavorful meatballs, a savory marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Explore the history behind this culinary favorite, understand key ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and herbs, and follow step-by-step instructions to create a delightful dinner that evokes nostalgia and togetherness. Share the love and enjoy every bite!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)

1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 large egg

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance acidity)

For the Spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Additional grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Instructions

Make the Meatballs:

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands until just mixed (do not overwork the meat).

- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Prepare the Sauce:

- While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant and lightly golden.

- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.

Cook the Spaghetti:

- In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.

- Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and toss it lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Combine and Serve:

- Once the meatballs are finished baking, gently add them to the simmering sauce. Allow them to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring that the meatballs absorb the sauce's flavors.

- To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate. Ladle the meatballs and sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

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Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve the spaghetti in deep bowls for an elegant presentation. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top before serving for extra flavor.