ADVERTISEMENT
#### **Ingredients for Meatballs:**
– **1 pound ground beef** (or a mix of beef and pork)
– **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **1/4 cup breadcrumbs** (preferably fresh)
– **2 tablespoons fresh parsley**, chopped
– **1 large egg**
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **1/2 teaspoon dried basil**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **1/4 teaspoon black pepper**
– **Olive oil**, for frying
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meatball Mixture**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
2. **Form the Meatballs**: Once the mixture is combined, use your hands to form the meatballs. Roll them into even-sized balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 16-18 meatballs, depending on the size you prefer.
3. **Fry the Meatballs**: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the meatballs for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
4. **Simmer in the Sauce**: Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to the pot of simmering Bolognese sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The meatballs will absorb the sauce’s richness and become tender.
5. **Serve**: Once the meatballs are fully cooked and tender, serve them alongside the spaghetti and Bolognese sauce. Garnish with additional parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
The meatballs are perfectly juicy, flavorful, and complement the richness of the Bolognese sauce. Together, they create a balanced and satisfying meal that will please anyone at the dinner table.
—
### **Pairing Wine with Spaghetti Bolognese and Meatballs**
No Italian meal would be complete without a great wine pairing, and Spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs is no exception. The rich, hearty flavors of the meat sauce and meatballs call for a wine that can stand up to them.
A **Chianti**, a classic Italian red wine, is an excellent choice. Its medium-bodied nature and balanced acidity make it a perfect complement to the tomato-based sauce and the richness of the meatballs. Other great options include a **Sangiovese**, **Barbera**, or even a **Zinfandel** if you prefer a wine with more fruit-forward flavors.
—
### **Conclusion: The Perfect Comfort Food Combo**
Spaghetti Bolognese and meatballs are the ultimate comfort food duo, bringing together the savory richness of the Bolognese sauce with the tender, juicy meatballs. This classic pairing is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the flavors to suit your tastes.
Whether you’re preparing this meal for a family dinner, hosting friends, or simply craving a comforting plate of pasta, Spaghetti Bolognese and meatballs never fail to deliver. The key to a truly exceptional dish lies in using the best ingredients and taking the time to develop the flavors, as both the Bolognese sauce and meatballs benefit from slow cooking and careful attention to detail.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, indulgent dinner, consider making Spaghetti Bolognese and meatballs — a meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household for years to come. Buon appetito!
