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## **Instructions:**
### **1. Make the Meatballs**
– **Preheat** your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
– In a large bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **bread crumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **garlic**, **egg**, **milk**, **parsley**, **salt**, **pepper**, **oregano**, and **basil**. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
– Roll the mixture into **meatballs**, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should get around **18-20 meatballs**.
– Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake in the preheated oven for about **20-25 minutes** or until they are browned and cooked through.
### **2. Prepare the Sauce**
– While the meatballs are baking, heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **onion** and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about **5 minutes**.
– Add the **garlic** and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
– Pour in the **crushed tomatoes** and stir in the **sugar**, **basil**, **oregano**, and **red pepper flakes**. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about **20-25 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
### **3. Combine the Meatballs and Sauce**
– Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them into the simmering tomato sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another **15-20 minutes**, allowing the meatballs to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
### **4. Cook the Spaghetti**
– While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **spaghetti** and cook according to package directions, usually about **9-11 minutes**, until al dente.
– Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce.
### **5. Serve**
– Plate the **spaghetti** and top with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with **fresh parsley** or **basil** and a generous sprinkle of **Parmesan cheese**.
– Serve with a side of **garlic bread** or a **green salad** for the perfect meal.
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## **Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti and Meatballs:**
### **1. Don’t Overmix the Meatballs**
Overmixing the meatball mixture can make them tough. Gently mix the ingredients together, just until combined, for the most tender meatballs.
### **2. Use Fresh Herbs**
Fresh **parsley** or **basil** can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried, but fresh herbs make the dish shine.
### **3. Let the Meatballs Simmer in the Sauce**
Letting the meatballs simmer in the sauce after they’re baked allows them to soak up all the delicious flavors. This step makes the meatballs even more juicy and flavorful.
### **4. Customize the Meatballs**
If you prefer a different protein, you can swap out the ground beef for **ground turkey** or **chicken**. For extra flavor, you can also add grated **Parmesan cheese** or **mozzarella** to the meatball mixture.
### **5. Make It Spicy**
If you like a bit of heat, add **red pepper flakes** to the sauce or sprinkle them on top of the finished dish for an extra kick.
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## **Why Spaghetti and Meatballs is a Family Favorite**
### **1. A Classic That Everyone Loves**
Spaghetti and meatballs is a **timeless dish** that appeals to all ages. Kids love the bite-sized meatballs, while adults appreciate the comforting flavors of the pasta and sauce. It’s the perfect dish to serve for **family gatherings** or **dinner parties**.
### **2. It’s Versatile**
You can tweak this recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you like your meatballs **soft** or **crispy**, or prefer a **spicy** tomato sauce, this dish can easily be adjusted to meet your needs.
### **3. Ideal for Leftovers**
This dish makes amazing leftovers! The flavors only improve as they sit, making it the perfect meal to prep in advance and enjoy for days.
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## **Final Thoughts**
**Spaghetti and meatballs** are the epitome of comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. This recipe is simple yet delicious, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, casual gatherings, or any occasion when you want something that will hit the spot. Whether you’re serving it with a side of garlic bread, a crisp salad, or just on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So next time you’re craving a classic meal that never disappoints, grab the ingredients and make this **amazing spaghetti and meatballs** recipe. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and fills the house with the smells of **home-cooked goodness**. Enjoy! 🍝🍽
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