Teresa's Recipes
Spaghetti with Meatballs and Parmesan
Indulge in this classic Italian comfort dish that brings together tender, homemade meatballs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich tomato sauce, all crowned with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Originating from the heart of Italy, this recipe has been a beloved family favorite for generations, embodying the essence of Italian home cooking. The symphony of flavors and textures makes this dish a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup, plus more for serving Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1, beaten Egg
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 cups (store-bought or homemade) Tomato sauce
- 12 ounces Spaghetti
- 1/4 cup, chopped for garnish Fresh basil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 65g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs, browning them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. Ensure they are well-seared for maximum flavor.
- Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, pour in the tomato sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and allow them to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate, top with the meatballs and sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano into the meatball mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free crackers.