Baked Meatball & Spaghetti
Indulging in a scrumptious plate of Baked Meatball & Spaghetti is like experiencing a hug for your taste buds. This classic Italian-American dish brings together tender meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and a rich tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that’ll transport you to the heart of Italy. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a cozy dinner date, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe has you covered. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to craft this delectable dish.
| INGREDIENTS FOR MEATBALLS | INGREDIENTS FOR SAUCE | OTHER INGREDIENTS |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Crushed tomatoes | Olive oil |
| Bread crumbs | Onion | Salt |
| Milk | Garlic | Black pepper |
| Parmesan cheese | Basil | Red pepper flakes |
| Egg | Sugar | |
| Parsley | Salt | |
| Salt and pepper | Olive oil |
Crafting the Perfect Meatballs:
Mixing the Ingredients
Start by combining the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a mixing bowl. Gently knead the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Shaping the Meatballs
With clean hands, roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs. The size is up to you, but uniformity ensures even cooking.
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Baking the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a touch of olive oil over them for a golden finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
Preparing the Flavorful Sauce:
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Simmering the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add basil, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. To balance the acidity, sprinkle in a bit of sugar. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Bringing It All Together:
Boiling the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Remember to salt the boiling water for extra flavor.
Mixing the Magic
Once the meatballs are out of the oven and the sauce is ready, gently toss the cooked spaghetti in the tomato sauce. This helps the flavors infuse the pasta.
Plating and Savoring
Plate the saucy spaghetti topped with your delectable meatballs. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and relish the symphony of flavors and textures!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat for the meatballs? A: Absolutely! While the classic recipe uses ground beef, you can experiment with a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal for a richer flavor.
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? A: Of course! You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop further.
Q: How can I make a vegetarian version? A: Replace the ground meat with a combination of cooked and finely chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini. Follow the same process for shaping and baking.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Absolutely. Allow the dish to cool before placing it in an airtight container and freezing. It makes for a convenient and delicious meal later.
Q: What can I serve as a side dish with Baked Meatball & Spaghetti? A: A crisp green salad and some garlic bread are perfect accompaniments to this dish. They add freshness and a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Q: Can I use store-bought tomato sauce? A: While making your own sauce adds depth of flavor, you can certainly use a good-quality store-bought tomato sauce for convenience.
The Baked Meatball & Spaghetti recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of Italian cuisine. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together over a table filled with warmth, flavor, and comfort. With this step-by-step guide, you’re equipped to create a memorable culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, channel your inner chef, don your apron, and let the aromatic journey begin!
