Are you ready to elevate your spaghetti dinner with some homemade meatballs? Making meatballs from scratch with ground beef is easier than you might think, and it’s a great way to add flavor and protein to your meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create mouthwatering meatballs that will complement your spaghetti perfectly.
Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Your favorite spaghetti sauce
- Spaghetti noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, and egg. Mix them well until they are fully combined. Add the minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a uniform mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. This recipe should yield about 12-16 meatballs depending on how large you make them.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Once all the meatballs are cooked, add them to a pot of your favorite spaghetti sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for at least 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are simmering, cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well once they are al dente.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Toss the cooked spaghetti noodles with a bit of sauce to coat them lightly. Plate the spaghetti and top it with meatballs and more sauce. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Uniform Size: Make sure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking.
- Browning: Browning adds flavor, so don’t skip this step before simmering in sauce.
FAQs About Making Meatballs
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or chicken. You can also mix different meats for added flavor.
How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
Can I bake the meatballs instead?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
And there you have it! With these simple steps and tips, you’ll be able to make delicious meatballs that will make your spaghetti night unforgettable. Enjoy your meal!