Spaghetti & Meatballs

Sure thing! Here’s a classic recipe for spaghetti and meatballs:Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (you can also use a combination of beef, pork, and veal)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Olive oil for frying

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
   • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
   • Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
2. Make the sauce:
   • In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the spaghetti:
   • While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
4. Assemble:
   • Pour the simmered sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat evenly.
   • Serve the spaghetti topped with the meatballs. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade spaghetti and meatballs!