Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

By Sara Robinson January, 2024

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Servings: 6/7

Prep Time: 2.5 hrs.

Total Time: 3.5 hrs

Servings: 4 Prep Time: 30 min.

Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

What makes a spaghetti and meatballs recipe so appetizing? Rooted in Southern Italy's culinary traditions, this beloved dish was brought to life by Italian immigrants in New York City.

The exceptional combination of flavors shines through. The savory, rich meatballs harmonize with the tangy marinara sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The contrast between the firm pasta and the tender meatballs elevates the dish.

Spaghetti and meatballs embody versatility. You can enhance the meatballs with various spices or herbs, experiment with different types of meat, or even opt for a vegetarian twist. They pair exquisitely with cheese, garlic bread, or a fresh salad, resulting in a well-rounded meal.

This cherished dish also carries a sense of nostalgia and tradition. For many families, it’s a staple that evokes memories of togetherness and home-cooked meals, often linked to cherished moments spent with loved ones. Ultimately, it represents comfort, flavor, and a profound sense of community.

While variations abound, this recipe showcases marinara sauce, basil, and milk-soaked bread. It's a personal favorite for the "What’s for Dinner, Mom?" section of my blog. Spaghetti and meatballs symbolize family, gathering, and love. There's nothing quite like a heartwarming dish of pasta waiting for your loved ones at home after a long day.

I may earn commissions from links on this page, but only recommend my favorites.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs of 80/20 ground beef

- 2 cups of finely chopped basil leaves

- 1 ½ cups of old bread soaked in milk

- 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese

- 3 green onion stalks, finely chopped

- 1 large clove of garlic, thinly sliced

- 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce

- 1 tbsp of salt

- ½ tsp of pepper

- 1 tbsp of olive oil

- 1 egg

- 16 oz of spaghetti, cooked al dente

- Extra shredded Parmesan cheese for topping

 

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Directions:

1.- Using a colander, squeeze the soaked bread to remove excess milk. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, basil leaves, egg, soaked bread, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

2.- Mix everything using your hands, then form medium-sized meatballs and set aside.

3.- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, sliced garlic, and chopped green onions. Sauté for a few seconds.

4.- Add the meatballs to the skillet with the sautéing green onions and garlic. Cook the meatballs over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.

5.- Pour the marinara sauce, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for another 10 minutes. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions, ensuring that it is cooked al dente.

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6.- Combine the pasta and meatballs with sauce on a serving platter and bring it to the table. Serve hot, topped with extra shredded Parmesan cheese. Enjoy with a glass of your favorite red wine.

Enjoy this delicious Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe.

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