Embrace the timeless charm of a classic with our Simple Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe! This all-time favorite is the epitome of comfort food, loved by both kids and adults. Featuring tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, it's a dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe promises to be a hit every time.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Makes 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 portion of spaghetti with meatballs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 500 grams (1.1 pounds) of ground beef
- 100 grams (0.22 pounds) of breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 800 grams (1.76 pounds) of canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
For the Pasta
- 400 grams (0.88 pounds) of spaghetti
Method of Preparation
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Form into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Cook the Meatballs
- Heat a frying pan with a little olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and cook the onion and garlic until soft.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for about 30 minutes.
Cook the Spaghetti
- In a separate pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the spaghetti on plates, top with meatballs and sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
- Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Let the kids help with forming the meatballs for a fun family activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make the meatballs in advance? Yes, you can prepare and cook the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them.
- What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs? A side of garlic bread and a green salad pairs well with this dish.
- Can I use store-bought sauce? Absolutely, if you're short on time, a good quality store-bought sauce can be used.
- How do I store leftovers? Store the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.