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Spaghetti u0026amp; Meatballs with Rich Marinara Sauce

Elina James
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Pasta
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • ½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional, for added flavor)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, optional if baking)
  • For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs : In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined — do not overmix. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and set aside.
  • Step 2: Cook the Meatball : Option 1: Pan-Frying .Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Remove meatballs and set aside; they will finish cooking in the sauce. Option 2: Baking ,Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  • Step 3: Make the Marinara Sauce : Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce : Gently add cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce. Simmer together for 10–15 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked and flavors meld.
  • Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot or serve directly on plates.
  • Step 6: Serve : Plate spaghetti and spoon meatballs and marinara sauce on top. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.