Imagine a plate of perfectly crafted Italian meatballs, golden and tender, nestled on a bed of steaming spaghetti, blanketed with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This traditional recipe brings the warmth of an Italian kitchen right to your dining table, combining classic flavors that have been cherished for generations. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress guests, these Italian meatballs promise to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch of chili pepper (optional)
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 400ml (14 oz) tomato puree (passata)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar
- Olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated or diced
- 40g (1.4 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly but gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Form uniform meatballs, approximately 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place meatballs in the pan, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve an even golden-brown crust.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add tomato puree, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
- Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return meatballs to the sauce and let them cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place cooked spaghetti on a serving platter.
- Top with meatballs and tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Optional: Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Cooking Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 people
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
Why These Meatballs Are Nutritionally Awesome
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutritionally balanced. Ground beef provides high-quality protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc. Fresh herbs add antioxidants, while tomatoes offer lycopene, a powerful heart-healthy compound. By using lean beef and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that supports overall wellness.
The combination of proteins, complex carbohydrates from pasta, and the nutrient-rich tomato sauce makes this dish a complete, wholesome meal that will keep you full and energized.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or a mix of beef and turkey, and opt for whole wheat spaghetti to increase fiber content.
Buon appetito!