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Spaghetti and Meatballs

Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Cozy Family Classic

Experience the heartwarming delight of spaghetti and meatballs, a classic dish that brings family together.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 cans Whole Tomatoes Use San Marzano for best flavor
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Adds richness and depth
  • 1 tbsp Butter Enhances flavor profile
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Develops natural sweetness
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Key aromatic for flavor
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Brings authentic taste
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Adds depth
  • 1 tsp Granulated Sugar Balances acidity
  • 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adjust to taste
  • Salt & Pepper Season to taste
For the Meatballs
  • 1/3 cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs Binds meatballs
  • 1/3 cup Milk Whole recommended for moisture
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Rich base for meatballs
  • 1/2 lb Ground Pork or Italian Sausage Adds moisture and flavor
  • 1 Large Egg Binds ingredients
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Enhances flavor
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Adds freshness
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder Boosts savory flavor
For the Pasta
  • 1 lb Uncooked Spaghetti Classic pasta choice
  • Fresh Basil Optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Plate
  • Pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare ingredients by breaking up tomatoes and chopping onion and garlic.
  2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and butter. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.
  3. Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, sugar, and red pepper flakes to the pan; simmer for 30 minutes.
  4. Mix breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl. Add beef, pork, egg, Parmesan, parsley, and onion powder. Combine gently.
  5. Form the mixture into 18 meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
  6. Add meatballs to the sauce, cover, and cook for 35 to 45 minutes.
  7. Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  8. Serve spaghetti topped with sauce and meatballs, garnished with Parmesan and basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best flavor, consider browning meatballs before adding to the sauce. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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