Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce
Try this Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce recipe.
Try this Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce recipe.
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 cup soft bread crumbs
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 pound ground beef (at least 80% lean)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons fat
- 3 cups chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic minced (or more according to personal taste
- 1 #2-1/2 can tomatoes strained, saving juice (3-1/2 cups)
- 2-6 ounce cans tomato paste
- 1-4 ounce can mushrooms with liquid
- 1-1/2 teaspoon salt (i use less about 1 teaspoon)
- 1/8 easpoonground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves crumbled between palms
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (about a heaping 1/2 teaspoo
- Carbohydrate 82.5400541935326 g
- Cholesterol 162.856249986497 mg
- Fat 79.6782208143775 g
- Fiber 10.1967919448851 g
- Protein 17.7508600075559 g
- Saturated Fat 43.2217283264034 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1164g)
- Sodium 5492.52178805934 mg
- Sugar 72.3432622486476 g
- Trans Fat 5.20974583261373 g
- Calories 1096 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine all ingredients except fat; mix lightly until well mixed.
- Shape into medium-sized meatballs.
- Melt fat in a large skillet, add meatballs and cook, turning frequently to brown on all sides.
- Meatballs need not be completely done in the center.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Drain excess grease from skillet, but leave browned bits of meat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, until partially tender.
- Add remaining ingredients except baking soda. Cook and stir until it comes to a short boil.
- Add saved juice from tomatoes until proper consistency.
- Add meatballs; cover and simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Check sauce and if it's not thick enough, continue cooking without the lid until desired thickness.
- While sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti.
- Just before serving, add baking soda to sauce and mix well.
My Favorite Weeknight Meal: Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and everything else that life throws my way, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I rely on tried-and-true recipes like this Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce – a classic that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The aroma alone fills the house with warmth and comfort, promising a delicious and stress-free evening meal for my family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires basic ingredients that are usually already in my pantry. No need to run to the store for exotic or hard-to-find items. I love how the meatballs brown beautifully in the skillet, capturing that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. And the sauce? Oh, the sauce! It’s rich and flavorful, simmered to perfection with a touch of sweetness and herbs. The process itself is therapeutic. The rhythmic chopping of onions, the gentle stirring of the sauce – it’s a moment of calm amidst the chaos of daily life. Plus, the leftovers are amazing! I often pack some for my lunch the next day, savoring the flavors again. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and efficiency – ideal for any busy weeknight.
What really sets this recipe apart for me is its versatility. While I stick to the recipe’s measurements as a guideline, I often adapt it based on my family's preferences and what's available. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I swap out the ground beef for a leaner alternative like turkey or even a mix of both. The ingredient list itself isn’t rigid, allowing for creativity and customization based on individual tastes. The sauce is equally adaptable; I’ve experimented with adding different herbs and spices, exploring the depths of Italian flavor. The joy of cooking lies in the experimentation, and this recipe is a canvas for countless culinary adventures.
Beyond the ease of preparation and delicious taste, this recipe is a cornerstone of my family's traditions. The aroma of simmering meatballs and sauce triggers memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. It's a dish that embodies warmth and togetherness, a reminder of the simple joys in life. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a cherished ritual that bonds us together. This recipe isn't just a dish, it’s a legacy I hope to pass down to my children, a taste of home, a connection to family, all simmered in a pot with love.
Beyond the Recipe: A Reflection on Comfort Food and Busy Lives
In our fast-paced world, we often sacrifice the simple pleasure of cooking a home-cooked meal. Convenience foods and takeout dominate our lives, but there’s something truly special about creating a meal from scratch, infusing it with your own love and care. It's a tangible expression of self-care, an act of nurturing not just your body but also your soul. This recipe, simple as it may seem, is a reminder to slow down, appreciate the process, and savor the delicious fruits of our labor. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. It’s more than just food; it’s the foundation of family and cherished moments.
Tips and Tricks for Meatball Success:
- Don't overwork the meatball mixture: Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through to 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Adjust the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Make it ahead: The meatballs can be browned ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.
- Get creative with additions: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the sauce. Consider mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
This Meatballs and Spaghetti Sauce recipe is more than just a meal; it's a journey – a journey of simple ingredients transformed into a masterpiece, a journey through the kitchen, a journey of love shared around a table. Enjoy!
