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.
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
- 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 ThoroughlyMixing 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 OilFrying 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 SauceOnce 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 SauceNow 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 BasilAfter 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