Ingredients and Weight:
- Ground beef (80% lean): 2 pounds (907 grams)
- Spaghetti: 1 pound (454 grams)
- Onion: 1 large, chopped (about 1 cup)
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Dried basil: ½ teaspoon
- Beef broth or stock: 3 cups
- Shredded tomato: 1 cup (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 6-8 hours (slow cooker setting)
- Total Time: About 6-8 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and basil. Mix well and form into small meatball shapes.
- In a slow cooker set to high, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Top with the meatballs.
- Pour the beef broth or stock over the meatballs. Add shredded tomato if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is flavorful.
- When ready to serve, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Toss spaghetti with the meatballs and sauce.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: About 500 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
Fat: About 20 grams
Carbohydrates: About 50 grams
Protein: About 30 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Comfort food that is perfect for a cold winter night or a family gathering.
- The dish has a rich and hearty flavor that Americans often enjoy.
- Slow cooking ensures that the meatballs are tender and the sauce is flavorful.
User Comments:
- "This dish was so delicious! The meatballs were so tender and the sauce was flavorful."
- "I love how easy this recipe is to make in a slow cooker. It's perfect for a busy weeknight."
- "Added some extra spices to give it a kick, still tasted great!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish.
- Ensure the slow cooker is set to low heat for a longer cooking time to ensure the meatballs are cooked through.
