Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground pork (or use all beef if you prefer)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 large eggs

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Olive oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

• Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

1. Cook the Meatballs:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

• Brown the meatballs on all sides. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Once browned, set them aside on a plate.

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.

• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper.

• Simmer the sauce for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

• Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain.

1. Assemble and Serve:

• Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti.

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese.

This homemade spaghetti and meatballs