pasta with meatballs

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water or broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or rigatoni work well)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Gently mix with your hands until just combined, then form into 1-inch balls.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the water or broth. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired.
4. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-30 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce is thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among plates, top with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired, and enjoy!

Enjoy your classic pasta with meatballs, a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone around the table!