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Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Spaghetti and meatballs is an enduring classic of Italian-American cuisine that has won over hearts around the world. The comforting combination of al dente spaghetti, hearty meatballs, and a rich tomato sauce is a beloved staple in many households. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Here’s a classic recipe that captures the essence of this timeless dish.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 500g minced beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 100g fresh breadcrumbs
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil, chopped)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of sugar (optional)

For the Spaghetti:

• 300g spaghetti
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, to serve

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. It’s best to use your hands for this, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

2. Cook the Meatballs

Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Working in batches, fry the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside. They will finish cooking in the sauce.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same frying pan, add another splash of olive oil, if necessary, and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, dried basil, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

After 10 minutes, add the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes. This will allow the meatballs to absorb the flavours of the sauce while cooking through.

4. Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve a little of the pasta water.

5. Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked through, you can either serve them on a bed of spaghetti or toss the spaghetti gently in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavour, use quality minced meat and fresh herbs. Freshly grated Parmesan adds a distinctive taste compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.

• Season Well: Don’t be shy with the seasoning; salt and pepper are your friends while enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Make It Ahead of Time: This dish benefits from letting the flavours meld, so consider making it a day ahead. Simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta before serving.

Conclusion

Classic spaghetti and meatballs is a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Its simple yet delicious components make it a perfect meal for any occasion. With this recipe, you’re just a few steps away from mastering this comforting classic. Enjoy your cooking, and better yet, enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family!

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