I decided to make this one on a night where I didn't have much going on seeing as you hand make the meatballs the sauce is homemade as well!
You'll need:
Meatballs:
1/2 lb hamburger
1/4 cup plain bread crumbs (I used Italian style bread crumbs)
1 large egg, slightly beaten
5 tbsp grated Parmigiano/Reggiano Cheese
1/2 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil
Marinara Sauce:
3 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced (I just used minced garlic)
2 tbsp olive oil
1-28 oz can whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
Salt and Black Pepper
1 tbsp unsalted butter
5 basil leaves, torn into pieces
8 oz spaghetti noodles
Grated Parmigiano/Reggiano cheese for serving
1 - Make the meatballs: In a large bowl combine all of the ingredients, except the olive oil, mixing with your hands.
2 - Rinse your hands in cold water and shape the meat into balls the size of grapes.
3 - In a large, heavy skillet heat the olive oil over moderately high heat.
4 - Working in batches, arrange the meatballs in the skillet in a single layer and cook, turning a few times, until richly browned on all sides, about 8 minutes total, being careful not to burn them. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
5 - Make the marinara sauce: In a large saucepan, cook the garlic in the olive oil over moderate heat until golden, about about 30 seconds.
6 - Turn the heat up to high; add the tomatoes and a large pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, then turn heat down to moderately low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick, about 15 to 20 minutes.
7 - Add the butter and basil to the saucepan, stirring to melt the butter. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8 - Add the meatballs to saucepan, stirring to combine. Simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes longer.
9 - Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
10 - Add the spaghetti to the saucepan with the marinara and meatballs and toss to coat. Transfer to a large bowl and serve, adding cheese if desired.
