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Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

A comforting dish that combines tender meatballs and garlic-infused spaghetti in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef The hearty base for your meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Adds perfect texture and helps bind the meatballs.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Provides a delicious boost of umami flavor.
  • 1/4 cup milk Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten Acts as a binding agent for meatball perfection.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and color.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
For the Sauce and Pasta
  • 1 pound spaghetti Perfect for soaking up marinara goodness.
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce The hearty sauce wraps everything together.
  • Fresh basil leaves For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking the Spaghetti
  1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set it aside.
Preparing the Meatballs
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce until gently bubbling.
  2. Carefully add the meatballs to the sauce and cover the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
Serving
  1. Serve a generous portion of spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Consider adding grated lemon zest to the meatball mixture for a fresh twist or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Store-bought marinara sauce can also be a time-saving alternative.