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Spaghetti with Meatballs Recipe – Easy & Delicious

 

Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary icon. This beloved dish has graced dinner tables for generations, combining tender, juicy meatballs with silky spaghetti and rich tomato sauce. This article will guide you through the authentic recipe for making Spaghetti and Meatballs from scratch, detail the ingredients needed, and discuss the nutritional value of this comforting classic.

 

Variety of fresh ingredients for Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe including ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs on a kitchen table.

 

Ingredients and Their Significance

 

Spaghetti

  • Purpose: Serves as the base of the dish, providing a neutral backdrop that highlights the flavors of the sauce and meatballs.

 

Meatballs

  • Ground Beef: The main protein, offering richness and flavor.
  • Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs together while adding a subtle texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the meatballs.
  • Eggs: Act as a binding agent for the meatballs.
  • Garlic and Onion: Fundamental for adding depth and aroma to the meatballs.
  • Herbs (Parsley, Basil): Introduce freshness and vibrancy.

 

Sauce

  • Tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing a sweet and tangy base.
  • Garlic and Onion: Build foundational flavors.
  • Olive Oil: Offers a smooth texture and enriches the overall flavor.
  • Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): Enhance and balance the sauce’s taste.

 

Nutritional Overview of  Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe

This dish offers a good balance of macronutrients:

  • Proteins: Essential for muscle repair and growth, primarily from the beef and Parmesan cheese.
  • Carbohydrates: Spaghetti provides the energy component of the meal, crucial for fueling the body’s daily activities.
  • Fats: Comes from the meat and olive oil, contributing to the satiety and flavor of the dish.

 

Micronutrients include:

  • Lycopene from tomatoes, known for its antioxidant properties.
  • Calcium and Phosphorus from cheese, important for bone health.
  • Iron from the meat, crucial for blood formation.

 

Step-by-Step for Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe

 

Hands forming meatballs for spaghetti on a wooden cutting board, showcasing the preparation process.

 

Preparing the Meatballs

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped onions, beaten eggs, and herbs. Mix until evenly combined.
  2. Form Meatballs: Scoop out a small amount of the meat mixture and roll between your palms to form smooth, evenly sized balls.
  3. Cook Meatballs: Fry the meatballs in a skillet with olive oil until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.

 

Making the Sauce

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a saucepan, heat olive oil and add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until translucent.
  2. Add Tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and let simmer until the sauce thickens.
  3. Combine with Meatballs: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

 

Boiling spaghetti in a large pot, steam rising, capturing the cooking process of pasta.

 

Cooking the Spaghetti

  1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti until al dente.
  2. Drain and Serve: Drain the spaghetti and serve topped with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese.

 

A beautifully served plate of spaghetti and meatballs topped with tomato sauce and garnished with Parmesan and basil.

 

Conclusion

Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe is a timeless dish that offers comfort and satisfaction. This classic recipe not only fills the belly but also warms the heart with its rich flavors and homely essence. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a special occasion, Spaghetti and Meatballs remains a favorite choice that stands the test of time.

Frequently Asked Questions for Spaghetti With Meatballs Recipe

Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as a substitute for beef if you prefer.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free spaghetti and use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Both the sauce and meatballs can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

What are the best herbs to use in this recipe?

Basil, parsley, and oregano are excellent choices for authentic Italian flavor.

Can I freeze leftover Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I enhance the flavor of my tomato sauce?

Simmering the sauce with a bay leaf or adding a splash of red wine during cooking can enhance the depth of flavor.
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