Hearty Spaghetti and Meatballs

American · Autumn · 90 min · Serves 4 · By The Lesapor Kitchen

Warm up this autumn with a comforting plate of spaghetti and meatballs. This recipe uses pantry staples to create a satisfying meal that's both delicious and budget-friendly.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Flaky sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cans (14 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Method

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into 16 meatballs.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  3. Add chopped onion to the same skillet, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and sugar. Season with salt and pepper, bringing to a simmer.
  4. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let simmer in the sauce for 20 minutes, until cooked through.
  5. While the meatballs are simmering, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over spaghetti, garnishing with fresh basil.