Spaghetti & Meatballs

Thanks to Lady and the Tramp, spaghetti and meatballs has become one of the most romantic dishes of all time. This from-scratch recipe has been tested and refined at least six times until we got it just right. With homemade meatballs and a gently simmered sauce (the longer it cooks, the better!), it’s worth the effort — though you can also use a pre-made passata (sauce) if you’re short on time.

Ingredients for the Meatballs:

• 1lb of minced beef or pork (or a mixture of both!)
• 1-1/2 cups of panko
• 1 onion minced or grated
• 5 stalks of parsley finely chopped
• 3/4 salt
• 1/4 pepper
• 2 eggs beaten lightly 
• 1-2 tbsp of anchovy
• 1/4 cup of water or milk
• 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning 
• Half a box of Spaghetti 
• 1/2 cup of Parm or Grand Padano 

Ingredients for the Sauce:

• 1 bay Leaf 
• 1 can of whole tomatoes 
• 1-2 tbsp of tomato paste 
  
• 2 teaspoon of minced garlic
•  1/2 onion diced or grated
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1/2 cup of pasta water if needed
• Parmesan rind if you have one 
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. For the Sauce: In a large dutch oven add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté your onion until translucent, then garlic and cook until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook down a little until it starts to stick. Then add your remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for upwards to 1 1/2 hours.
   
2. For the Meatballs: Pre-heat the oven to 400F.
3. Beat eggs and combine with your liquid of choice (milk or water) and soak the breadcrumbs. Then add the minced meat and remaining ingredients and mix until fully combined.
4. Shape the mixture into balls whatever size your heart desires, and place them on a pan and bake in oven uncovered for 20 minutes for a partial cook. They should no longer be pink.
5. Place the meatballs into the sauce, and simmer for 15 minutes or so.
6. Cook your spaghetti to box instructions (But don't forget to always salt your pasta water!!).
7. Add your Spaghetti to the sauce stirring to coat, and finish on plate with a parm and basil garnish! 

Tip: Option to shallow fry the meatballs in oil to get a smooth crispy crust instead of baking!