How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

For the Spaghetti:

• 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
• Salt (for the pasta water)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, milk, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   2. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
   3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
   4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   5. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
   1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
   4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and red wine (if using).
   5. Add sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
   6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
   7. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce.
   8. Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
3. Cook the Spaghetti:
   1. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   3. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
4. Combine and Serve:
   1. Pour some of the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat.
   2. Serve the spaghetti topped with meatballs and extra sauce.
   3. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your classic spaghetti and meatballs!