how to make spaghetti bolognese with meatballs

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Meatballs

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved classic dish that brings together the comforting flavors of a rich meat sauce and al dente pasta. Adding meatballs to this dish takes it to another level, creating a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs - 500g (1 lb) ground beef - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for frying

For the Bolognese Sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 cup red wine (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti - 250g (8 oz) spaghetti - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) - Extra grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Form the Meatballs With wet hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. You should get around 12-15 meatballs depending on the size. Place them on a plate and set aside.

3. Brown the Meatballs Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning regularly until they are browned on all sides. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

4. Make the Bolognese Sauce In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery for about 5-7 minutes or until softened. Add the canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil to the mixture. If using, pour in the red wine and bring to a simmer.

5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Allow everything to simmer together for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the meatballs will absorb the delicious flavors.

6. Cook the Spaghetti While the Bolognese is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and reserve a small cup of pasta water.

7. Serve Plate the cooked spaghetti and generously spoon the Bolognese sauce and meatballs over the top. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan if desired.

Conclusion

This recipe for spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs is sure to become a family favorite. It combines the heartiness of meatballs with a flavorful sauce, making it a comforting dish that celebrates Italian cuisine. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this spaghetti Bolognese will warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Enjoy your culinary journey into the world of Italian cooking!