Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup prepared pesto
- Grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Large skillet for cooking meatballs
- Mixing bowl for meatball mixture
- Food processor for making pesto (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add prepared pesto and heat over medium heat until warmed through.
7. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pesto and toss to coat.
8. Serve spaghetti with meatballs on top and grated parmesan cheese.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
N/A
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 650
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 600mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of spaghetti.
- Store-bought pesto can be used instead of homemade.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pesto for extra flavor.
- Use different types of meat, such as pork or lamb, for the meatballs.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to season the meatball mixture well with salt and pepper.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the meatballs for even sizing.
- If the meatballs are sticking to the skillet, add a little more oil.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a large platter with the meatballs on top of the spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, grated parmesan cheese, chopped tomatoes, or chopped basil.
Pairings:
Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the meatballs are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the meatballs to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
Food history:
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
The dish is savory and hearty, with the meatballs providing a meaty flavor and the pesto adding a fresh and herbaceous note.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of red wine and a side salad for a complete meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian