why make this recipe
Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs is a classic dish loved by many. It’s a warm and hearty meal that brings comfort and joy. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the meatballs add a satisfying texture. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking.
how to make Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs
Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef 1 cup fresh bread crumbs 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper 0.125 teaspoon garlic powder 1 egg, beaten 0.75 cup chopped onion 5 cloves garlic, minced 0.25 cup olive oil 2 (28 ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon white sugar 1 bay leaf 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste 0.75 teaspoon dried basil 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and beaten egg. Mix well and form into 12 balls. Store, covered, in the refrigerator until needed.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in tomatoes, salt, sugar, and bay leaf. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 90 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, basil, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and meatballs, and simmer for 30 minutes more.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs
Serve the sauce and meatballs over cooked spaghetti noodles. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top and add a side of garlic bread or a simple salad. This classic combination makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
how to store Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs
After the meal, let any leftovers cool down before storing. Place the sauce and meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs
- Use fresh herbs when possible for better flavor.
- Don’t skip the simmering steps; they develop a richer taste.
- If you like spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For a leaner option, try using ground turkey instead of ground beef.
variation
You can easily customize the meatballs. For a different flavor, mix in chopped herbs, cheese, or even a little chopped spinach. You can also use a different type of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, store-bought meatballs work fine if you’re short on time. Just add them to the sauce during the simmering step.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the meatballs with vegetarian meat substitutes or make black bean patties. Use vegetable broth and add in more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The flavor gets better after a day. Make it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.