Spaghetti and Meatballs. The third most cooked meal

This Italian-American classic has become a favorite in many American homes. Spaghetti noodles topped with meatballs and marinara sauce is a comforting and familiar dish.

Ingredients for Meatballs:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredients for Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• Spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are fully submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles.
7. Serve the spaghetti topped with the meatballs and sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Enjoy your homemade spaghetti and meatballs, and adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.