Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce
- 1 can whole tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or Italian sausage)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley to taste
- Onion powder to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Fresh basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Mince garlic and crush whole tomatoes in a bowl.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot. Sauté onion for 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer on low for 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Add ground beef, pork, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently and form 18 meatballs.
- Add meatballs to sauce, cover, and simmer 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and serve topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- Mix meatballs gently to keep them tender.
- Simmer longer for deeper flavor.
- Taste sauce and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Freeze extra portions for easy future meals.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian