Craving for some classic comfort food? Look no further! This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will surely leave everyone at the table satisfied.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp onion powder
– 24 oz marinara sauce
– 1 lb spaghetti
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat.
5. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Serve the meatballs and marinara sauce over the cooked spaghetti and enjoy!
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Protein: 25g
– Fiber: 3g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
– Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
– Absolutely, using store-bought meatballs can save time and still result in a delicious dish.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
– Yes, you can freeze the meatballs after baking them and reheat them when needed.
4. Can I add additional vegetables to the marinara sauce?
– Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
5. Can I use another type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
– You can use any pasta of your choice, but spaghetti pairs well with meatballs.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and simply cook the spaghetti before serving.
7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the meatballs?
– Fresh herbs can be used for a more vibrant flavor in the meatballs.
8. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
– You can use meatless meatballs or substitute with mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
9. Can I add red pepper flakes for a kick of spice?
– Yes, red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce for a spicy twist.
10. Can I add extra cheese on top before serving?
– Absolutely, feel free to sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
**Helpful tips:**
1. For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork for the meatballs.
2. Add a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce for depth of flavor.
3. Serve the dish with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Make extra meatballs and freeze for quick weeknight meals.
6. Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist on this classic dish.
7. Top the spaghetti with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added decadence.
8. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the meatballs for a unique flavor profile.
9. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the finished dish for extra richness.
10. Don’t overcook the spaghetti to keep it al dente for the perfect texture.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Sear the meatballs in a hot skillet before baking for a crispy exterior.
2. Let the meatball mixture rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping for easier handling.
3. Use a mix of beef and veal for a more traditional flavor in the meatballs.
4. Add a touch of Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture for umami depth.
5. Use a blend of Italian seasoning for a quick flavor boost in the meatballs.
6. Baste the meatballs with the marinara sauce halfway through baking for extra juiciness.
7. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
8. Cook the pasta in salted water for enhanced flavor in the spaghetti.
9. Use a mix of crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce for a well-rounded marinara sauce.
10. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for a longer period for maximum flavor infusion.
Enjoy this delicious Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!