Spaghetti And Meatballs With Italian Sausage
Spaghetti and meatballs with Italian sausage is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many. This hearty and delicious meal is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a party. The combination of tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and flavorful Italian sausage makes this dish an all-time favorite. In this article, we will discuss the history of spaghetti and meatballs, the ingredients needed to make this dish, and a step-by-step guide on how to prepare it.
The History of Spaghetti and Meatballs
The history of spaghetti and meatballs dates back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants started migrating to the United States. They brought with them their traditional dishes, including spaghetti and meatballs. However, the dish as we know it today is not exactly the same as the traditional Italian version. In Italy, meatballs are served as a separate course, while pasta is usually served with a tomato sauce or other toppings. It was only in America that the two were combined to create the beloved dish of spaghetti and meatballs.
Ingredients Needed
To make spaghetti and meatballs with Italian sausage, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to make spaghetti and meatballs with Italian sausage:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, red wine, and salt. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, until they are cooked through. Serve the spaghetti topped with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and meatballs with Italian sausage is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. With this step-by-step guide, you can easily make this dish at home and impress your family and friends. So go ahead and give it a try!
