FAVORITE SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS

Favorite Spaghetti and Meatballs image

Provided by Kathy D @LifeIsGoodkd

Categories Pasta

Number Of Ingredients 25

MEATBALLS:
2 tablespoon(s) olive oil
4 clove(s) garlic, finely chopped
8 ounce(s) ground pork
8 ounce(s) ground veal
8 ounce(s) ground beef
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup(s) grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup(s) dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup(s) parsley, finely chopped
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup(s) pure olive oil (not extra-virgin), for frying
TOMATO SAUCE:
2 tablespoon(s) olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 clove(s) garlic, finely chopped
56 ounce(s) (2 - 28 oz. cans) whole plum tomatoes and their juice, pureed in a blender
1 - bay leaf
1 small bunch of parsley
1 pinch(es) red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 - basil leaves, shredded
FINISH:
1 pound(s) spaghetti
- freshly grated parmesan cheese

Steps:

Meatballs: Heat oil in a small skillet over med-high heat. Add the garlic and cook, while stirring, until softened. Transfer to a bowl and add the remaining ingredients to the bowl (except for the frying oil!). Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large skillet over med-high heat. Roll the mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls and fry them until just lightly browned all over. Remvoe them with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tomato Sauce: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Add the pureed tomatoes, with their juice, bay leaf, parsley, pepper flakes, and the salt and pepper, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and add the meatballs , and let simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until sauce is thickened. Remove the bay leaf and parsley bunch. Stir in basil just before serving.
FINISH: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until tender. Drain well in a colander, and then transfer to a large serving bowl. Reserve the meatballs and toss the sauce with the pasta. Top with meatballs and the Parmesan cheese and serve. Enjoy!