Healthier Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce: * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1/2 cup chopped onion * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes * 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce * 1/2 cup water * 1 teaspoon dried oregano * 1 teaspoon dried basil * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper * 8 ounces spaghetti

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: 2 (beginner-friendly)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Meatballs: 1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. 2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

For the Sauce: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. 4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer. 5. Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Spaghetti: 1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.

Assembly: 1. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the sauce. 2. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the spaghetti is heated through.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and flavorful
• Hearty and satisfying
• Made with leaner ingredients, making it a healthier option
• Versatile, can be served for lunch or dinner

User Comments:

• "This is the best spaghetti sauce I've ever had! The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and the sauce is rich and flavorful."
• "I love how easy this recipe is to make. It's quick, simple, and always turns out delicious."
• "This is a great dish for a crowd. It's hearty and filling, and everyone always loves it."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• If you don't have fresh herbs, use 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano and basil instead.
• Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.