how to make spaghetti bolognese with meatballs

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Meatballs A Delicious Culinary Journey

Spaghetti Bolognese, an Italian classic, is beloved around the world for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. While traditional Bolognese sauce is often served with just spaghetti, adding meatballs elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. This article will guide you through the steps of making spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs, ensuring a delightful dining experience for you and your family.

Ingredients

For the meatballs - 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bolognese sauce - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 400g canned tomatoes (crushed or diced) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup beef broth or red wine (optional for depth of flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Form small meatballs—about the size of a golf ball—and set them aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Meatballs Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them until they are brown on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside. They will finish cooking in the sauce.

3. Make the Bolognese Sauce In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, and then toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Pour in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you prefer, pour in the beef broth or red wine for an enhanced flavor. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

4. Combine Meatballs with Sauce Gently place the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce while ensuring they are cooked through.

5. Cook the Spaghetti While the sauce and meatballs are 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 pasta and return it to the pot.

6. Serve and Enjoy Once the meatballs are cooked, serve the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Dish it up onto plates and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Conclusion

Making spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs is a rewarding culinary adventure, yielding a comforting and flavorful dish that pleases both the palate and the soul. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of savory meatballs and hearty sauce resting atop tender spaghetti creates a meal that feels both special and satisfying. Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs, and share the joy of good food with your loved ones!