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Spaghetti & Meatballs

A classic comfort dish that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley fresh is best, but dried works too!
  • 1 medium egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
For the Pasta
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • Water for boiling

Method
 

Make the Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once it’s hot, add the meatballs and cook until they’re browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  3. Remove them and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the chopped onion.
  2. Sauté until it’s golden, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper.
Simmer It All Together
  1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let it all simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
Cook the Spaghetti
  1. While the sauce is bubbling, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions.
  2. Make sure to salt your boiling water generously.
Serve Up the Love
  1. Drain the spaghetti and serve with sauce and meatballs.
  2. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Notes

You can prepare and freeze meatballs ahead of time. If the sauce is too chunky, blend for a silky finish.