A Simple Guide to Preparing Spaghetti Bolognese with Flavorful Meatballs

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Meatballs

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has won the hearts of many across the globe. Combining hearty meatballs with a rich, savory sauce served over al dente spaghetti, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. In this article, we will explore how to make spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs that are succulent and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

To create the perfect spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs, you will need the following ingredients

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

For the Bolognese Sauce - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely chopped - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped - 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 cup beef or vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving - 400g (14 oz) spaghetti - Fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Meatballs

Start by making the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture.

Once mixed, shape the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. You should yield about 16-20 meatballs, but you can adjust the size according to your preference.

Step 2 Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.

Step 3 Make the Bolognese Sauce

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the dried oregano and basil.

Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the pan. Stir until combined, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4 Combine Sauce and Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the sauce, gently stirring to coat them thoroughly. Cover the pan and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 20 minutes. This will ensure they are cooked through and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 5 Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 6 Serve

To serve, mix the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce and meatballs, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Plate the spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Enjoy your homemade spaghetti Bolognese with meatballs, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty flavors and comforting textures, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. Buon appetito!