Welcome pasta aficionados! we’re diving headfirst into a dish that’s a total classic—Spaghetti and Meatballs! But this isn’t just any spaghetti and meatballs; we’re talking about tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, all served over perfectly al dente spaghetti. This dish is pure comfort, wrapped in a twirl of pasta, and I’m going to show you how to make it like a true Italian Nonna. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking—it’s time to bring some amore to your kitchen!

Ingredients:

Let’s meet the stars of today’s culinary show:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef – For that hearty, meaty goodness.
• ½ lb ground pork – Adds just the right amount of richness and flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Keeping our meatballs tender and juicy.
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Because Parmesan is life.
• 1/4 cup milk – Softens the breadcrumbs and adds moisture.
• 1 egg – The glue that holds our meatballs together.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that punch of Italian flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Bringing in that fresh, vibrant touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – For that classic Italian herb kick.
• Salt and pepper – Seasoned to perfection.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – The base of our rich sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – More garlic? Yes, please!
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes – The heart and soul of our sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Just a touch to balance the acidity.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Bringing that aromatic Italian flair.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Because one herb is never enough.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, making sure the sauce is spot-on.

For the Spaghetti:

• 1 lb spaghetti – The perfect pasta to soak up all that saucy goodness.
• Salt – For seasoning the pasta water.
• Fresh basil – For garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – For serving, because more cheese is always better.

Step 1: Roll Out the Red Carpet for the Meatballs

Let’s get these meatballs rolling, shall we? In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Now, here’s where it gets fun—get in there with your hands and mix everything up until it’s just combined. Remember, we’re aiming for tender meatballs, so don’t overdo it!

Now, roll that mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should end up with about 20-24 little flavor bombs. Place them on a baking sheet, and let’s get ready to sear these babies!

Step 2: Sear to Sizzle

Now, heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. We want that oil nice and hot so we can get a beautiful sear on these meatballs. Add them to the skillet in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sear. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, rolling them around until they’re golden brown on all sides. Once they’re looking irresistible, transfer them to a plate. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet—they’re about to take a luxurious bath in our tomato sauce.

Step 3: Sauce Like a Boss

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté it over medium heat until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen should be smelling like an Italian trattoria right about now.

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, and stir in the sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let those flavors mingle and dance together for a few minutes.

Step 4: The Meatball Tango

Now, carefully nestle those seared meatballs back into the sauce. Make sure they’re all covered in that rich, tomatoey goodness. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer together for about 25-30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the meatballs soak up all those flavors, becoming tender, juicy, and absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Spaghetti Showtime

While the meatballs are simmering away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the spaghetti, but save a little of that pasta water—it’s liquid gold for loosening up the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Plate Like a Pro

Alright, it’s time to bring it all together! Toss the cooked spaghetti with a splash of that reserved pasta water, then divide it among your plates. Spoon those meatballs and all that rich, flavorful sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and a hit of freshness, and don’t forget a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

The Final Bite

And there you have it—Spaghetti and Meatballs that’s as comforting as a warm hug from Nonna. The meatballs are tender and full of flavor, the sauce is rich and hearty, and the spaghetti is perfectly coated in that saucy goodness.

This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or anytime you need a little Italian comfort in your life. So, go ahead, twirl that fork, and dive into a plate of pure happiness!

Thanks for joining me in the kitchen today! What do you think? Did I provide helpful culinary guidance? Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with!

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