Spaghetti And Meatballs

Name: Spaghetti And Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 jar (24 oz marinara sauce); 12 ounces spaghetti

Indulge in the classic comfort of spaghetti and meatballs, a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With tender meatballs nestled in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce and served over al dente spaghetti, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless choice that everyone will love.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
12 ounces spaghetti

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 550 calories, 30g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs.
Toss gently to combine and serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free version. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat substitutes and ensure the marinara sauce is free from any meat products.

Serving and Pairings

Spaghetti and meatballs pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top enhances the dish’s flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs.
Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
Using too much salt can overpower the dish.
Not letting the meatballs rest before serving can cause them to fall apart.
Skipping the simmering step can lead to bland meatballs.

Helpful Tips

Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatball sizes.
Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor significantly.
Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
Let the sauce simmer longer for deeper flavors.

FAQs

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat them in the sauce before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for ground beef.

Can I use jarred sauce instead of homemade?

Absolutely! High-quality jarred marinara sauce can save time without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Spaghetti and meatballs is more than just a meal; it’s a beloved classic that brings people together. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy it brings to your table!