Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti

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# Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti: The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Ah, **Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti**! Is there anything more comforting than a steaming plate of pasta loaded with juicy meatballs and a rich, flavorful sauce? Whether you’re coming home from a long, hectic day or simply looking to impress your loved ones, this dish hits all the right notes. Picture this: the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around the table. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so nostalgic—just like grandma used to make!

Now, let’s dive into this classic recipe that not only brings joy to your plate but also makes you feel like a kitchen superhero—even if you sometimes burn toast. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

## Why You'll Love This Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti

- **Easy Yet Impressive**: This dish is as comforting as a warm hug from your favorite aunt. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but sophisticated enough to wow your dinner guests.
- **Versatile**: Whether you like it spicy, sweet, or savory, you can easily adapt the sauce or meatballs to suit your family's taste buds.
- **Family Favorite**: Seriously, who doesn’t love pasta? This recipe is a guaranteed hit, even with the pickiest of eaters!

## Ingredients

### For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste

### For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to cut the acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

### For Serving:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving

## Steps to Culinary Glory

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that's heating up, it's a great time to clean your kitchen counter—never hurts to start with a tidy space, right?

2. **Mix the Meatballs**: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Get in there with your hands (this is the most fun part) and mix until everything is well combined. Once ready, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. **Bake the Meatballs**: Pop those meatballs in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re browned and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time—bonus points for that!

4. **Make the Sauce**: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer while your meatballs cook, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it simmer, the better the flavors meld!

5. **Combine**: Once the meatballs are done, carefully place them in the sauce, giving them a good stir to coat them in that rich tomato goodness. Allow them to simmer together for another 5 minutes.

6. **Cook the Spaghetti**: While the meatballs and sauce are mingling, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. **Serve**: Plate your spaghetti, ladle the meatballs and sauce on top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parm if you’re feeling indulgent. Voilà! Dinner is served!

## Cooking Tips

- **Customize Your Meatballs**: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or pork—get creative! Just keep the breadcrumbs and cheese to help with moisture.
- **Don’t Stress the Sauce**: If you're short on time, jarred marinara works in a pinch; just add the meatballs right to the sauce!
- **Make Ahead**: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Double the batch, and you’ll thank yourself later during those chaotic weeknights.

## A Little Storytime

I’ll never forget the first time my sister Patricia and I decided to tackle this recipe together. It was chaotic—flour everywhere, dogs barking because they wanted a taste, and let’s not even talk about how many meatballs hit the floor. But by the end of it, we sat down to a steaming plate of our hard work, and as we laughed over our mess, we realized this dish was more than just food; it was about creating memories.

## FAQs

**Can I substitute the breadcrumbs in this recipe?**  
Absolutely! You can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even panko for an extra crunch!

**How can I store leftovers?**  
Store any leftover meatballs and spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

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So there you have it! **Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti** is not just a dish; it’s a little piece of love served on a plate. Perfect for cozy dinners or when you want to impress without the stress. Trust me, once you whip up this recipe, it might just become your new family favorite! 🍝 

And remember, every time you cook, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating memories. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear about your delicious adventures! 

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### Meta Description:
Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!