Simple Spaghetti with Marinara and Meatballs
Classic spaghetti tossed in a rich marinara sauce, served with savory meatballs. A comforting and satisfying dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- •1 pound spaghetti
- •1 tablespoon olive oil
- •1 small onion, finely chopped
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- •1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- •1 teaspoon dried oregano
- •1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- •1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- •Salt and black pepper to taste
- •1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- •1 large egg
- •2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- •1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- •2 tablespoons olive oil (for meatballs)
- •Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Dietary Info
Instructions
- 1
For the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix). Roll the mixture into 12-16 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- 3
For the Marinara Sauce: In the same skillet (add a little more olive oil if needed), reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, water or broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
- 5
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
- 6
Serve the cooked spaghetti topped generously with the marinara sauce and meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
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