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### Instructions:
#### 1. Make the Meatballs:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, egg, milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined – be careful not to overwork the mixture to ensure tender meatballs.
Once your mixture is ready, form it into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Working in batches, add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. The meatballs don’t need to be cooked all the way through at this point, as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
#### 2. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and red wine (if using) to the pan. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then gently return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the meatballs, then cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
#### 3. Cook the Spaghetti:
While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you want to thin out your sauce.
#### 4. Assemble and Serve:
To serve, place a generous portion of cooked spaghetti on each plate. Spoon a few meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce over the top. For extra flavor, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
1. **Classic Comfort:** Spaghetti and meatballs are the definition of comfort food. The savory meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta combine to create the ultimate satisfying meal.
2. **Perfectly Balanced Flavors:** With a blend of herbs, garlic, and cheese, these meatballs are full of flavor. The marinara sauce complements them beautifully, with a touch of sweetness from the tomatoes and richness from the wine.
3. **Easy to Customize:** You can easily make this recipe your own. For a healthier twist, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add vegetables to the sauce, like bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrition.
4. **Make-Ahead Friendly:** The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days, or frozen for up to three months. Simply reheat before serving and cook the pasta fresh.
5. **Great for Meal Prep:** Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this dish scales well and holds up beautifully when reheated.
### Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti and Meatballs:
– **Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture:** Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients and then form the meatballs.
– **Add Flavor to the Sauce:** If you like your marinara sauce a bit more flavorful, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, or experiment with adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
– **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh basil or parsley can really elevate the dish when sprinkled on top before serving.
– **Don’t Skip the Cheese:** Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for adding that salty, nutty finish to the dish.
### Conclusion:
**Spaghetti and Meatballs** is more than just a meal; it’s a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. This recipe brings together perfectly seasoned meatballs, a rich marinara sauce, and al dente spaghetti for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this amazing recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home with this irresistible and heartwarming dish!
