Hearty Spaghetti with Homemade Meatballs

Embark on a culinary journey with a timeless classic that warms the heart and soothes the soul: Spaghetti with Meatballs. This dish, an epitome of comfort food, has been cherished through generations, transcending borders with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Here, we reimagine this beloved dish, offering a step-by-step guide to creating a version that’s both familiar and freshly inviting. Gather your ingredients and let’s create magic in the kitchen, transforming simple components into a meal that speaks of home, heritage, and the simple joy of a deliciously hearty plate.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef (a mix of beef and pork works well too)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (consider using panko for a lighter texture)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prep the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined—avoid overworking to keep the meatballs tender. Form into 1-inch balls.
2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, turning to brown on all sides. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point. Once browned, transfer them to a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics for the Sauce: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar (if using), basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the skillet, covering them with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
6. Combine and Serve: Serve the cooked spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

This Spaghetti with Meatballs recipe not only fills the kitchen with inviting aromas but also brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia to the table. It’s a dish that celebrates the joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing good food with loved ones. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.