Best Way To Cook Spaghetti And Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for generations. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. In this article, we will explore the best way to cook spaghetti and meatballs that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
The first step in cooking spaghetti and meatballs is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it's time to start cooking. Follow these instructions to cook the best spaghetti and meatballs:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well with your hands.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, or until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and stir well. Pour the sauce and meatballs over the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best spaghetti and meatballs:
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- You can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce to add more flavor and nutrition.
- If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Instead of spaghetti, you can use other types of pasta like penne or fettuccine.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic dish that is loved by many. By following these instructions and tips, you can make the best spaghetti and meatballs that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're looking for a hearty dinner or a special occasion meal, spaghetti and meatballs is a great choice. Enjoy!