Why Spaghetti and Meatballs is a Classic Italian Dish
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. Although it is not a traditional Italian dish, it has become a beloved comfort food that is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of tender meatballs and flavorful tomato sauce over a bed of spaghetti noodles is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a recipe that can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 500g spaghetti
- 500g ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cans of crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, milk, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
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Form the mixture into meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
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In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the red wine and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
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Add the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
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While the meatballs are cooking, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the pot with the meatballs and sauce. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce until well coated.
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Serve the spaghetti and meatballs hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Variations
- Vegetarian: To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meatballs or omit the meatballs altogether and make a tomato sauce with sautéed vegetables like onion, bell pepper, and zucchini.
- Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, follow the same steps as the vegetarian version and use vegan parmesan cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
- Gluten-free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free spaghetti noodles.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that can be easily made at home with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, and it’s a dish that everyone is sure to love. With a little bit of preparation and some patience, you can create a delicious meal that will bring everyone together.
FAQ
What type of ground meat should I use for meatballs?
You can use any mixture of ground meat you prefer. However, a combination of beef and pork is traditionally used for meatballs.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. However, spaghetti is the traditional pasta used in this dish.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs. However, the flavor may not be as strong, so you may need to use more.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. However, Parmesan cheese is the traditional cheese used in this dish.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade sauce will give the dish a fresher flavor.
Can I freeze the leftover meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover meatballs and sauce. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How can I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture and don’t handle the meatballs too much. Also, make sure to brown the meatballs on all sides before adding them to the sauce.
How long should I cook the spaghetti for?
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Make sure to salt the water before adding the pasta to enhance the flavor.
