Making the Meatballs:
- Prepare Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until absorbed. Add the ground beef, ground pork, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape Meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook Meatballs:
- You can either fry them in a skillet with some olive oil until browned on all sides and then finish cooking in the sauce, or bake them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for about 25-30 minutes until browned.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
- Cook Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and dried basil (if using fresh basil, add it towards the end of cooking). Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer Sauce:
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little water.
- Finish with Meatballs:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and continue to simmer for at least another 20 minutes.
Cooking the Spaghetti:
- Boil Pasta:
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
Serving:
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the hot spaghetti topped with a generous helping of the meatball sauce. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil on top.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and Meatballs is a timeless dish that offers a satisfying and hearty meal. Each component, from the tender meatballs to the robust tomato sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, works together to create a delightful culinary experience. This meal is perfect for a family dinner and is sure to be enjoyed by everyone. Pair it with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and delicious meal.