Real Italian Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian dish loved by many. It's a hearty meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The key to making the perfect spaghetti and meatballs is to use fresh ingredients and follow the recipe closely. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a real Italian spaghetti and meatballs recipe that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs about 2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
6. Serve the spaghetti topped with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Make sure the meatballs are evenly sized for even cooking.
- Brown the meatballs before baking to give them a crispy outer layer.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Don't overcook the spaghetti. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a real Italian spaghetti and meatballs recipe, you can impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Remember to use fresh ingredients, follow the recipe closely, and don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs. Buon appetito!