Spaghetti with sauce and meatballs

Spaghetti with sauce and meatballs - a classic and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever thought about the taste of home? Spaghetti with sauce and meatballs is that dish that reminds us of family meals, of moments when laughter and stories intertwine with the delicious aroma of freshly cooked food. This simple and quick recipe will transform your meal into a memorable feast.

Let's get to work!

Ingredients

*For the meatballs:*
- 350 g minced pork (you can also choose a mix of pork and beef for extra flavor)
- 2 slices of bread (preferably whole grain or rye for a more intense taste)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped, but you can also use green onions or scallions for a different flavor)
- 2 eggs (essential for binding the mixture)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh if you have it on hand)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (another aromatic choice)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a touch of warmth)
- Salt and pepper to taste

*For the sauce:*
- 200 ml tomato sauce (you can use freshly made tomato sauce for an authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (this will intensify the flavor of the sauce)
- 100 g canned tomatoes (for a pleasant texture)
- Basil and oregano, just like in the meatballs
- Salt to taste
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (finely chopped for an extra flavor)
- 1 bay leaf (a hint of aroma that will transform the sauce)

*Spaghetti* (as much as you want, depending on your appetite)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the meatballs
Start by soaking the two slices of bread in cold water. After a few minutes, squeeze them well to remove excess water. This is an essential trick, as the soaked bread will make the meatballs more tender and fluffy.

In a large bowl, add the minced meat, the prepared bread, finely chopped onion, eggs, basil, oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands, ensuring all ingredients are perfectly combined. If you like to experiment, you can also add a pinch of chili for extra spiciness!

2. Shaping the meatballs
Form round meatballs of your desired size. It’s best to make them about the size of a golf ball, as they will cook evenly. Place them on a plate and set aside.

3. Frying the meatballs
In a deep pan, heat the oil for frying. Test if the oil is hot enough by tossing in a small piece of dough; if it sizzles, it’s time to add the meatballs. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a pot, add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and canned tomatoes. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve the desired consistency. Mix well and heat over medium heat. When the sauce starts to boil, add the chopped garlic, bay leaf, basil, oregano, salt, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This sauce will become the perfect base for the meatballs.

5. Boiling the spaghetti
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add a tablespoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Assembling the dish
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and place it on plates. Add 5-6 meatballs on top and generously pour the tomato sauce over them. Don’t forget to sprinkle grated Parmesan on top! You might have forgotten about it, but we promise the taste is completely different with a sprinkle of Parmesan!

Serving and suggestions

This dish can be served with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad to add a refreshing touch. A slice of garlic bread would make a perfect accompaniment!

Nutritional information

A serving of spaghetti with sauce and meatballs contains approximately 600 calories, providing both protein from the meat and carbohydrates from the pasta. The meatballs are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Absolutely! Chicken is a lighter and equally delicious alternative.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add chili flakes or chili sauce while cooking.

3. What can I use instead of pasta?
If you want a gluten-free option, you can use rice or vegetable pasta.

4. How can I store the meatballs for later consumption?
The meatballs can be stored in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for later use.

5. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine or a fresh lemonade are excellent options to complement the meal.

These spaghetti with sauce and meatballs are not just a simple dish, but a true feast that brings joy and comfort in every bite. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your apron and let’s cook together!