Tuga Pops − Sunday, November 14, 2021, 5 Years ago in Pasta Recipes

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Gorete's Yum Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Name: Gorete's Yum Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 1 lb of ground veal or 1 lb of beef; 1/3 cup of Italian breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1 pinch of pepper; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder; 1/4 cup of olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, finely chopped; 2 cups of tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped; 3/4 cup of chicken stock; 1/4 cup of red wine; 2 tablespoons of tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 lb of spaghetti, cooked and drained; 4 ounces parmesan cheese, grated; Oil, enough to cover bottom of frying pan

This yum Italian spaghetti and meatballs recipe, is from a Pasquale cookbook and is the one my girls enjoy the most.

1 h 4 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 45 min

Pasta Recipes

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Ingredients

1 lb of ground veal or 1 lb of beef1/3 cup of Italian breadcrumbs1/2 teaspoon of salt1 pinch of pepper1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg1/4 teaspoon of chili powder1/4 cup of olive oil1 onion, finely chopped1 garlic clove, finely chopped2 cups of tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped3/4 cup of chicken stock1/4 cup of red wine2 tablespoons of tomato paste1/2 teaspoon of garlic powderSalt and pepper (to taste)1 lb of spaghetti, cooked and drained4 ounces parmesan cheese, gratedOil, enough to cover bottom of frying pan

Directions

Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, nutmeg and chili powder, then form the mixture into small balls with the palms of your hands.
Heat some oil in frying pan, and cook onion and garlic for 5 minutes.
Add the meatballs and brown all over.
Add tomatoes, stock, wine, tomato paste, garlic powder, and salt and pepper, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Place cooked pasta on a heated platter.
Pour some sauce and meat balls over the pasta.
Sprinkle with grated cheese and serve immediately.

Note:Sometimes I will make extra meatballs and flash freeze them, then store them in plastic bags. When I'm ready to use them, I make the sauce and add the frozen meatballs to the sauce allowing for a longer cooking time.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Chef Gorete, food.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground veal with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each will offer a slightly different flavor and texture, but they all work well in this recipe.

How should I store leftover spaghetti and meatballs?

Store leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs separately to use at a later time; they can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart while cooking?

If your meatballs are falling apart, it might be due to a lack of binding. Ensure you are using enough breadcrumbs and consider adding an egg to the mixture for additional binding. Additionally, be gentle when handling them and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Douro Red - This wine's rich fruit flavors and acidity complement the savory flavors of the meatballs and tomato sauce beautifully.

General: Chianti - A classic Italian red wine that pairs perfectly with tomato-based dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - A well-balanced lager that provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs and pasta.

General: Pilsner - A crisp and light beer that cleanses the palate between bites of hearty spaghetti and meatballs.

Other Beverages

Espresso: A strong and aromatic coffee that enhances the meal's flavors and provides a delightful finish to the dining experience.

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