If you're looking for a delicious and easy meal, look no further than 1 meal (289 g) Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs. Not only is it tasty, but it's also low in calories, coming in at just 290 per serving. This classic dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a hearty lunch.
In addition to being low in calories, Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs is also a good source of protein, with each serving providing 15 grams. It's also high in iron, providing 15% of the recommended daily value.
In this article, we'll explore how to make Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs, its nutritional information, health benefits, serving suggestions, storage instructions, variations, and tips for cooking. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll find something useful in this article.
Easy Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs Recipe
To make Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs, you'll need spaghetti pasta, ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and canned tomato sauce. Here's how to make it:
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Form mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large skillet, cook meatballs until browned on all sides.
- Add canned tomato sauce and bring to a boil.
- Simmer until meatballs are cooked through.
- Top cooked spaghetti with meatballs and sauce.
This easy recipe makes about 4 servings.
How to Make Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
To make Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs, start by gathering your ingredients. You'll need:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
Once you have your ingredients, follow these steps to make the dish:
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
To make Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
Here's the nutritional information for 1 serving (289 g) of Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs:
- calories: 290
- Total Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 15 g
This information is based on a recipe that serves 4.
Health Benefits of Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs can be a healthy meal choice when prepared with lean beef and served with whole wheat pasta. Here are some of the health benefits:
- Good source of protein for building and repairing muscles
- Source of iron for oxygen transport and immune function
- May help with weight management when portion sizes are controlled
- Provides energy for physical activity and mental function
However, it's important to keep in mind that this dish is also high in sodium and may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure.
Serving Suggestions for Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal
- Top with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a classic Italian dinner
Whatever you choose, Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Instructions for Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
If you have leftovers, Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet until hot.
Variations of Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
There are many ways to customize Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
- Add chopped vegetables like bell pepper or zucchini for extra nutrition
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor
- Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding mushrooms or plant-based crumbles
Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect version of Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs.
Tips for Cooking Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs:
- Don't overcook the pasta - it should be al dente (firm to the bite)
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking
- Make small meatballs for faster cooking and more even heating
- Season the meat mixture generously for maximum flavor
- Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for at least 15 minutes to ensure they're cooked through
By following these tips, you'll be sure to impress your friends and family with your Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs.
History of Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
Spaghetti with meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is believed to have been inspired by Italian immigrants who wanted to create a dish that combined the flavors of their homeland with the ingredients available in America.
The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but some believe it may have been developed by Italian immigrants in New York City who were looking for a way to use leftover meat.
Today, Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs is a beloved dish that has become a staple in many American households.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti with Mini Meatballs
What are the nutritional values of spaghetti with mini meatballs?
In one meal (289g) of spaghetti with mini meatballs, there are 290 calories, 8g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 16g of protein.
How are the mini meatballs prepared?
The mini meatballs are usually made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. They are then rolled into small balls and cooked in a skillet or oven until browned and cooked through.
Is spaghetti with mini meatballs a healthy meal option?
Spaghetti with mini meatballs can be a healthy meal option as it contains a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. However, the nutritional value can depend on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
Can spaghetti with mini meatballs be customized to fit dietary restrictions?
Yes, spaghetti with mini meatballs can be customized to fit various dietary restrictions. For example, you can use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for those who need to avoid gluten. Additionally, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lower fat option.
What are some tips for making the perfect spaghetti with mini meatballs?
Some tips for making the perfect spaghetti with mini meatballs include using fresh herbs for added flavor, adding a splash of red wine to the sauce to enhance the flavor, and simmering the sauce for a longer period to allow flavors to blend.