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Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

A close-up of a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, covered in rich tomato sauce and topped with fresh basil leaves.
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A comforting Italian-American classic featuring tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and served over spaghetti.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten eggs and mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Roll the meat mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove meatballs from the pot and set aside.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  6. Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  7. While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti.
  8. Serve the spaghetti topped with the meatballs and marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • For extra tender meatballs, use a mix of beef and pork.
  • You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.
  • Adjust seasonings to your preference.
  • Consider using a high-quality canned tomato for the best sauce flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/spaghetti-and-meatballs-recipe/