Spaghetti With Meatballs (Spaghetti con Polpette)

Spaghetti with meatballs, also known as Spaghetti con Polpette, is a delicious and comforting dish that blends Italian roots with American flair. It’s a family favorite for a reason! Picture perfectly seasoned meatballs simmered in marinara, nestled on a bed of spaghetti. You’re looking at a meal that’s both hearty and inviting. Need a simple recipe to whip up? Or maybe some tips on making your meatballs fluffier? Stick around, and you’ll discover all the secrets to making this classic truly special!

Origins of Spaghetti and Meatballs

When you think of classic Italian comfort food, it’s hard not to picture a steaming plate of spaghetti and meatballs, right?

This beloved dish actually has roots that stretch beyond Italy’s borders. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, blending the flavors of their homeland with local ingredients.

The combination of pasta and meatballs became a staple, reflecting the cultural influences of both Italian cuisine and American tastes.

It’s fascinating how this simple meal evolved, turning into a symbol of warmth and family gatherings.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Large pot, skillet, mixing bowl, wooden spoon, colander, serving plates
Cuisine Type: Italian

Spaghetti con Polpette is a classic Italian dish that brings together al dente spaghetti and savory homemade meatballs in a rich marinara sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a taste of traditional Italian cooking that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

The meatballs are seasoned to perfection and simmered in a flavorful sauce, creating a delightful experience with every bite. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize the meatballs with different types of ground meat, such as beef, pork, or turkey, and adjust the sauce according to your taste preferences.

Whether you prefer a mild or spicier sauce, this dish can be tailored to suit your liking. Serve it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil for frying
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, taking care not to overmix to prevent tough meatballs.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, yielding around 16-20 meatballs. Place them on a plate or a baking sheet while you prepare the sauce.
3. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides for approximately 6-8 minutes in total, then transfer them to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
5. 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. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, gently toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips: For enhanced flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meatball mixture. To make the dish heartier, you can incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the marinara. Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti con Polpette with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal!

Spaghetti With Meatballs Prep Time, Cooking Time & Serving Size

Getting ready to whip up a delicious plate of Spaghetti con Polpette doesn’t have to be a hassle; in fact, you can plunge into this delightful dish with just 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking. How’s that for a quick comfort meal?

To make the most of your prep time, gather all ingredients and tools beforehand; it’ll save you from scrambling later! When it comes to cooking techniques, browning the meatballs to perfection will elevate the dish, so don’t rush that step.

This recipe serves four, making it perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends. You’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds. Are you ready for a delicious feast?

Spaghetti With Meatballs Cooking Steps

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!

Start by combining those meatball ingredients thoroughly—trust me, the flavor’s in the mix.

Once you fry and simmer those meatballs in marinara sauce, you’ll be just steps away from tossing in the spaghetti and enjoying a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

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Spaghetti With Meatballs (Spaghetti con Polpette)

Savor the flavors of Italy with our spaghetti con polpette. This hearty dish combines juicy meatballs and a flavorful sauce for an unforgettable meal.

Servings 4

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Large pot (For cooking the spaghetti.)
• Skillet (For browning the meatballs and simmering in marinara sauce.)
• Mixing Bowl (For combining the meatball ingredients.)
• Wooden spoon (For mixing and serving.)
• Colander (For draining the cooked spaghetti.)
• Serving Plates (For serving the finished dish.)

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• ¼ cup parsley (fresh, chopped)
• 1 egg (large)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp oregano (dried)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• olive oil (for frying)
• Parmesan cheese (extra grated, for serving)

Instructions

 

• Combine Meatball Ingredients Thoroughly

  Mixing meatball ingredients is where the magic begins! You’ll want to gather your ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, and spices into a large mixing bowl.

  Now, the key is to combine everything thoroughly, ensuring those ingredient proportions are just right. As you mix, think about the meatball texture you’re aiming for—soft yet firm, not too dense.

  Use your hands if you can; it’s the best way to feel how everything melds together. But remember, don’t overmix! That’ll make your meatballs tough. Instead, gently incorporate the ingredients until they’re well combined, and shape them into little orbs of deliciousness.

  Ready to move on? Trust me, your meatballs will be waiting for you!
  
• Fry Meatballs in Olive Oil

  Frying meatballs in olive oil brings out their delicious flavors and gives them that perfect golden crust. You'll love how the olive oil not only enhances the taste but also provides those heart-healthy benefits we all appreciate.

  Start by heating a couple of tablespoons in your skillet over medium heat—this is where your frying techniques come into play. Once it's hot, gently place your meatballs in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pan. You want them to sizzle and brown beautifully on all sides, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes.

  The aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby. Just imagine the joy of serving these golden gems in your spaghetti dish. Doesn’t that sound delightful?
  
• Simmer Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

  Once those beautifully browned meatballs are ready, it’s time to plunge them into the rich marinara sauce.

  Gently nestle the meatballs into the bubbling sauce, letting them bask in that savory warmth. Cover the skillet and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

  This is where the magic happens! As they cook, the flavors meld beautifully, and the meatballs become oh-so-tender.

  You’ll want to check the sauce consistency; it should be thick enough to cling to the meatballs but still have a little bit of saucey goodness for your spaghetti later.

  Can you smell that? The aroma will make your mouth water!

  Trust me, these meatballs will be the star of your meal. Enjoy every moment!
  
• Add Spaghetti to Sauce

  Now that your meatballs have simmered to perfection in that luscious marinara sauce, it’s time to bring the spaghetti into the mix!

  Whether you’re using traditional spaghetti or a fun twist like whole wheat or gluten-free varieties, the process is simple. First, gently toss your drained spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce and meatballs.

  Can you smell that heavenly aroma? If the sauce feels a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water. This little trick helps blend everything beautifully.
  
• Garnish With Fresh Basil

  After tossing your spaghetti into that rich marinara sauce and letting the flavors mingle, it’s time to add a finishing touch that’ll elevate your dish to a whole new level: fresh basil.

  Just imagine that vibrant green, fresh basil on top, adding a burst of flavor! Not only does it enhance the basil flavor profile with its sweet and slightly peppery notes, but it also brings fresh basil benefits, like boosting your dish’s aroma and adding a pop of color.

  So, grab a few leaves, tear them gently, and sprinkle them on your spaghetti. It’s like giving your meal a warm hug!

  Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful addition. Who knew garnishing could feel so satisfying?
  

Nutrition

Calories: 732kcalCarbohydrates: 81gProtein: 38gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 126mgSodium: 1462mgPotassium: 943mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 997IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 174mgIron: 6mg

Calories: 732kcal

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian-American

Keyword: Italian Cuisine, Pasta Night, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Spaghetti con Polpette

Spaghetti With Meatballs Swaps And Substitutions

When you’re cooking Spaghetti with Meatballs, don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients! Swapping in different options can make this dish even more special.

Consider these simple substitutions:

• Use lentils or chickpeas for vegetarian options.
• Try ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner meatball.
• Opt for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Experiment with quinoa breadcrumbs instead of regular for a healthier twist.
• Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach to boost nutrition.

These swaps not only cater to various diets but also add unique flavors.

Spaghetti With Meatballs Serving Suggestions And Meal Pairings

While you savor the comforting flavors of Spaghetti with Meatballs, think about how you can elevate your dining experience with a few well-chosen accompaniments.

Perfect meal accompaniments can truly enhance your enjoyment, so consider these options:

• A crisp, fresh Caesar salad for a revitalizing contrast.
• Garlic bread, perfect for soaking up that rich sauce.
• Roasted vegetables, adding a healthy and colorful touch.
• A light, fruity red wine like Chianti for a lovely pairing.
• A sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who love a spicy kick.

These additions create a delightful balance, transforming your meal into a memorable feast.

Store in Airtight Containers

To keep your delicious Spaghetti con Polpette fresh and flavorful, storing leftovers in airtight containers is essential. This simple step protects your meal from air and moisture, helping to maintain that rich taste you love.

Here are some handy storage tips for you:

• Use glass containers for easy reheating.
• Choose BPA-free plastic containers for lightweight storage.
• Opt for vacuum-sealed bags to save space.
• Label containers with dates to track freshness.
• Avoid using metal containers, as they can affect flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever found yourself wondering about the best ways to enjoy your Spaghetti with Meatballs? You’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you elevate your experience:

• What meatball variations can I try?
• Can I use different sauce types to mix it up?
• How can I make my meatballs even fluffier?
• What sides pair well with this dish?
• Any tips for leftovers?

Experimenting with different meatball variations like turkey or vegetarian options can bring new life to this classic dish.

Also, trying out various sauce types, such as marinara or Alfredo, adds a delightful twist.

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your culinary adventure with Spaghetti con Polpette, don’t you find it rewarding to create a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings loved ones together?

This comforting meal offers endless meal variations, letting your creativity shine. Whether you choose beef, turkey, or a mix, each bite can be a delightful surprise.

Don’t forget the flavor enhancement—add your favorite herbs or a kick of spice to customize the sauce.

Picture everyone around the table, laughter echoing as they dig into your masterpiece.

So, as you savor the last bite, remember that this dish isn’t just about food; it’s about connection, love, and creating cherished memories.

Enjoy every moment!

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