Awesome, Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs 🍝

Overview:

Name: Awesome, Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Description: This is a tasty easy hand-me-down recipe from my mom and I use it regularly. You can make it and eat it right away, no one ever complains about eating left-overs with this dish and it also freezes well for future eating. Enjoy!!
Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Keywords: Pork, Meat, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 297.2
• Fat Content: 21g
  • Saturated Fat Content: 7.3g
• Cholesterol Content: 43.1mg
• Sodium Content: 1314.2mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 11.4g
  • Fiber Content: 2.4g
  • Sugar Content: 5.3g
• Protein Content: 16g

Ingredients:

• 1 Italian sausage link
• 1 can of tomatoes
• 1 onion
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 green pepper
• 1 stalk of celery
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon fennel seed
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional)

Instructions:

This recipe for Awesome, Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs is a cherished family favorite passed down through generations. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this dish with confidence.

To begin, gather your ingredients: Italian sausage, tomatoes, onion, garlic, green pepper, celery, salt, pepper, oregano, fennel seed, basil, and optional mushrooms. These flavorful ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with tender meatballs and al dente spaghetti.

Start by preparing the Italian sausage. Remove the casings and cut the sausage into bite-sized pieces. Roll each piece into small meatballs for that classic spaghetti and meatball experience. Then, brown the meatballs on all sides until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once they’re done, set them aside to drain any excess grease.

In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, green pepper, and celery until they’re tender and aromatic. These vegetables add depth of flavor to the sauce and complement the savory sausage perfectly. Once they’re softened, add them to the drained meatballs, creating a base for your sauce.

Next, it’s time to add the star of the show: the tomatoes. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes, along with any optional mushrooms if you’re using them. The tomatoes provide a rich, tangy base for the sauce, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, oregano, fennel seed, and basil, adjusting the seasonings to taste.

Let the sauce simmer gently for 45 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together into a harmonious blend. As it simmers, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomatoes. Meanwhile, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente and ready to serve.

Once the sauce is thick and fragrant and the spaghetti is cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate up your meal. Spoon the sauce over the hot spaghetti, ensuring each strand is coated in deliciousness. Arrange the meatballs on top, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Serve your Awesome, Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the stove or reheating leftovers the next day, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. And with its freezer-friendly nature, you can always have a batch on hand for those busy days when you need a comforting meal in a hurry.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time. Enjoy! 🍴