Spaghetti and Meatballs
30M
1H and 30M
- Makes 4 servings
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti.
- Serve the spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Classic Italian Dish
History
Spaghetti and meatballs, a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine, has a rich history that traces back to the early 20th century. While spaghetti itself has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, the combination of spaghetti with meatballs is believed to have originated in the United States. Italian immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to suit the tastes and ingredients available in their new home, leading to the creation of this iconic dish. The first known mention of spaghetti and meatballs in print appeared in a 1920s cookbook, solidifying its place in American culinary culture. Today, spaghetti and meatballs remains a favorite comfort food, enjoyed in homes and restaurants across the country.
Taste Profile
The taste profile of spaghetti and meatballs is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and comforting flavors. The homemade meatballs, typically made from a mixture of ground beef, pork, or veal, are seasoned with herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano, along with garlic and Parmesan cheese. These meatballs are then simmered in a rich tomato sauce, which adds a tangy and slightly sweet note to the dish. The sauce is often enhanced with additional herbs and a touch of red wine, creating a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the meatballs. Finally, the spaghetti, cooked to al dente perfection, provides a satisfying texture and serves as the perfect canvas for the flavorful sauce and meatballs. The combination of these elements results in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying, with a taste that is uniquely Italian-American.
Cultural Significance
Spaghetti and meatballs holds a special place in Italian-American culture, serving as a symbol of family, tradition, and the blending of culinary influences. For many Italian-American families, this dish is a staple at Sunday dinners and special occasions, bringing loved ones together around the table. The act of making the meatballs and sauce from scratch is often a labor of love, passed down through generations and cherished as a family tradition. Beyond its role in family gatherings, spaghetti and meatballs has also become an iconic representation of Italian-American cuisine in popular culture, frequently featured in movies, television shows, and restaurants. While the dish may have evolved from its Italian roots, its cultural significance in the United States is undeniable, making it a beloved and enduring part of the American culinary landscape.
