🍝 Spaghetti with a Giant Meatball 🍝
Why settle for small meatballs when you can have one giant, juicy showstopper instead? This fun twist on the Italian classic brings hearty, comforting flavors that are perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for the ultimate feast!
🧆 Ingredients
For the Giant Meatball:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Salt (for pasta water)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Giant Meatball:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently mix together beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Shape into one giant meatball—about 8 to 10 inches wide.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- While the meatball bakes, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble & Serve:
- Slice the giant meatball into thick, juicy pieces.
- Serve over a bed of spaghetti and spoon the warm tomato sauce generously over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if you like.
🍷 Buon Appetito!
This dish is a playful, hearty upgrade on traditional spaghetti and meatballs. Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad to round out the meal—and maybe a glass of red wine, too!
