Creamy Spaghetti & Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with creamy spaghetti & meatballs. This dish combines tender pasta, savory meatballs, and a rich, creamy sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this delightful recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
To make creamy spaghetti & meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
12 ounces spaghetti
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for cooking meatballs, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant for about 3-4 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes and stir well.
Step 5: Add Cream
Pour in heavy cream and mix it thoroughly into the sauce. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to your taste. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently coat them in the sauce and let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cook Spaghetti
While meatballs are simmering in sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 8: Serve
To serve creamy spaghetti & meatballs, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate and top with several meatballs along with plenty of creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips and tricks
To make your creamy spaghetti and meatballs truly exceptional, consider using fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish. These herbs not only add flavor but also enhance the presentation of your dish. When cooking the meatballs, ensure you brown them on all sides to lock in their juices. This step will give them a rich flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Lastly, always cook your spaghetti al dente for the perfect bite.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for creamy spaghetti and meatballs?
For creamy spaghetti and meatballs, you will need ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, an egg, garlic, onion, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for the meatballs. The sauce requires cream, diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, and additional seasoning. Don’t forget the spaghetti itself! Using high-quality pasta makes a difference in texture and flavor.
How can I make my meatballs more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your meatballs, mix in fresh herbs like parsley or oregano along with grated cheese. You can also add minced garlic or finely chopped onions for depth. Allowing your meat mixture to rest for about 15 minutes before shaping into balls helps the flavors meld together better.
Can I prepare creamy spaghetti and meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare creamy spaghetti and meatballs ahead of time. Cook the meatballs and sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat both components together until heated through. Cook the spaghetti fresh to maintain its texture.
This recipe yields a deliciously comforting dish that combines rich flavors with satisfying textures. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, creamy spaghetti and meatballs is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy this classic meal with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience!