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Tuscan meatballs and spaghetti

For anyone searching for the perfect dinner delight, look no further than Tuscan meatballs and spaghetti. This traditional dish, which oozes flavors from the heart of Italy, is a must-try. While Tuscany is renowned for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, its cuisine is equally remarkable. Dive into this guide and discover how to bring a piece of Tuscany to your table.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritions

Nutrition Facts
Tuscan meatballs and spaghetti
Amount per Serving
Calories
500
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
20
g
31
%
Carbohydrates
 
55
g
18
%
Fiber
 
4
g
17
%
Sugar
 
6
g
7
%
Protein
 
25
g
50
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 pound 450g
  • Fresh breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup 60g
  • Fresh parsley chopped: 1/4 cup (15g)
  • Garlic cloves minced: 2
  • Grated parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup 50g
  • Large egg: 1
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon 5g
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon 1g
  • Spaghetti: 8 ounces 225g
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons 30ml
  • Crushed tomatoes: 1 can 400g
  • Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon 1g
  • Fresh basil leaves: A handful

Instructions

  • Start by mixing ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, half of the garlic, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  • Form this mixture into medium-sized meatballs.
  • In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Once hot, add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. This should take around 5 minutes.
  • Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
  • In the same pan, add the remaining garlic. Cook until aromatic.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and oregano.
  • Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes.
  • As the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti as per package instructions.
  • Return the meatballs to the sauce, letting them soak in the rich flavors.
  • Once the spaghetti is ready, drain and mix with the meatballs and sauce.
  • Finish by garnishing with fresh basil and some extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add some red chili flakes to the sauce.
Always use fresh herbs; they elevate the flavor.
For a richer sauce, you can add a touch of balsamic vinegar.
Serve the Tuscan meatballs and spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. This dish pairs beautifully with a cold iced tea or a sparkling water with a lemon wedge. Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional grated parmesan on top for that extra touch of Italian goodness.