Giada De Laurentiis Spaghetti Sauce And Meatballs
When it comes to Italian cuisine, there's no denying that Giada De Laurentiis is a household name. One of her most famous recipes is her Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs, which is a delicious and classic take on this beloved dish. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this recipe and why it's worth trying out for yourself.
The History of Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households across the United States. However, its origins can be traced back to Italy, where meatballs (or polpette) are often served as a separate course from pasta. In fact, it wasn't until the early 20th century that Italian immigrants began to combine the two dishes in America.
Today, spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved comfort food that has been adapted and modified in various ways. Giada De Laurentiis' recipe is just one example of how this dish can be prepared.
The Recipe
The following is Giada De Laurentiis' recipe for Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 pound spaghetti
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of golf balls.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add the chopped basil and meatballs to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti and toss with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped basil if desired.
Tips for Making the Perfect Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making Giada De Laurentiis' Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs:
- Use fresh herbs: This recipe calls for both fresh parsley and fresh basil, which add a lot of flavor to the dish. Make sure to use fresh herbs rather than dried for the best results.
- Don't overmix the meatballs: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix the mixture. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough and dry.
- Brown the meatballs well: Make sure to brown the meatballs well on all sides before adding them to the sauce. This will give them a nice crispy exterior and help them hold together.
- Simmer the sauce: Letting the sauce simmer for a while after adding the meatballs will help the flavors meld together and create a more cohesive dish.
Conclusion
Giada De Laurentiis' Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that is sure to please any crowd. With fresh herbs, tender meatballs, and a flavorful tomato sauce, it's easy to see why this recipe has become a favorite in many households. Give it a try for yourself and see why it's such a beloved comfort food!
