Cozy Meatball Spaghetti Recipe: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish
Cozy Meatball Spaghetti Recipe: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish 🍝💕
Oh, darling, there’s nothing like a steaming plate of meatball spaghetti to warm your heart and soul, especially when you’re feeling a bit under the weather! 😌 This recipe is pure comfort food—juicy, tender meatballs nestled in a rich tomato sauce, twirled with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s nourishing, easy to make, and oh-so-satisfying! 🌟 Plus, the garlic and herbs in this dish give your immune system a little love when you’re fighting a cold. Ready to get cooking? Let’s make some magic in the kitchen! 🥄✨
Ingredients: For 4 Servings
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor) 🥩
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 tsp dried oregano 🌿
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp milk
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes 🍅
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti 🍝
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish) 🌱
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving 🧀
Instructions:
- Make the Meatballs 🥄
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix, or your meatballs will be tough! 😊 Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (you should get about 12-16 meatballs). Set them on a plate and chill for 10 minutes to firm up. - Cook the Meatballs 🔥
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet—they’ll finish in the sauce! Transfer to a plate and set aside. - Prepare the Tomato Sauce 🍅
In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 🧄 Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in basil, oregano, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. - Simmer the Meatballs 🥘
Nestle the meatballs back into the sauce, spooning some sauce over them. Cover and simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F/71°C). Give it a gentle stir occasionally to coat the meatballs in that rich, tomatoey goodness. 😍 - Cook the Spaghetti 🍝
While the meatballs simmer, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce. - Bring It All Together 🌟
Toss the spaghetti with a ladle of the tomato sauce to coat it lightly. Divide the pasta among plates, top with meatballs and extra sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. 🧀
Serving Tips:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. 🍞
- For an extra immune boost, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick that helps clear sinuses! 🌶️
- Pair with a cozy blanket and your favorite show for the ultimate self-care meal. 😌
Why It’s Great for a Cold:
The garlic in the meatballs and sauce is a natural immune booster with antimicrobial properties, while the warm, hearty dish keeps you hydrated and comforted. The protein from the beef helps your body stay strong, and the tomatoes are packed with vitamins to support recovery. 💪 It’s like a big, warm hug on a plate!
Final Thoughts:
This meatball spaghetti is the perfect way to treat yourself when you’re feeling a little sniffly or just craving something soul-soothing. 🍝💖 It’s simple enough for a weeknight but feels like a special treat. What’s your favorite comfort dish to make when you need a pick-me-up? Share in the comments—I’d love to know! 😊 Stay cozy and enjoy every twirl of pasta! 🌈
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