Italian Sunset Spaghetti and Meatballs

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Italy with this heavenly dish. Perfectly tender meatballs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, served on a bed of al dente spaghetti. Each bite will transport you to the sun-soaked streets of Italy, where food and love intertwine. Buon appetito!
ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
steps
- 1.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- 2.
Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- 3.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- 4.
In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 5.
While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- 6.
Serve the spaghetti on plates, topped with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.