Spaghetti and Meatballs
Why this Spaghetti and Meatballs works
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic dish loved by many. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender meatballs, flavorful marinara, and perfectly cooked spaghetti makes this dish a winner on any table.
How to make Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti
- Ground beef
- Bread crumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic
- Onion
- Salt
- Pepper
- Marinara sauce
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil
Directions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet, cover, and simmer until meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve meatballs over spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil.
How to serve Spaghetti and Meatballs
Serve spaghetti and meatballs hot with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh basil on top. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to store Spaghetti and Meatballs
To store leftovers, place the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave or gently heat on the stove.
Tips to make Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Don’t over-mix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
- Experiment with different meats, like ground turkey or pork, for variety.
- Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations
For a healthier twist, you can replace spaghetti with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I make meatballs without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or a small amount of applesauce to help bind the meatballs together.
2. How can I make my meatballs juicier?
Adding grated parmesan cheese and not over-cooking them can help keep the meatballs moist.
3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Using store-bought sauce can save you time and still result in a delicious dish.
Enjoy your delicious spaghetti and meatballs!
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz Spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
- 24 oz Marinara sauce Can be store-bought or homemade
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Substitute with turkey or pork if desired
- ½ cup Bread crumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese Grated
- 1 large Egg Can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- ½ cup Onion Chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For browning the meatballs
- ¼ cup Fresh basil For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet, cover, and simmer until meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve meatballs over spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil.
