Blog

Spaghetti and meatballs with Prego sauce is a classic Italian-American dish that’s beloved by many.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create this mouthwatering meal in your own kitchen. From preparing the perfect meatballs to choosing the ideal Prego sauce, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s dive in and discover how to make spaghetti and meatballs with Prego!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1-pound ground beef
• 1/2-pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-pound spaghetti
• 1 jar of Prego sauce
• Olive oil
• Grated mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

Crafting the Perfect Meatballs

Step 1: Mixing the Meat

Begin by taking a large mixing bowl and combining the ground beef and pork. Add in breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped parsley, milk, minced garlic, chopped onion, an egg, and season with salt and pepper. Mix all these ingredients together until they are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 2: Shaping the Meatballs

Now, it’s time to shape the meat mixture into meatballs. Ensure that they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Browning the Meatballs

In a generously sized skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them until they turn a rich, golden brown on all sides, and make sure they are cooked through, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, set the delectable meatballs aside, ready to be combined with the spaghetti and Prego sauce for a perfect Italian meal.

Achieving Pasta Perfection

Step 1: Bringing Water to a Boil

Start by taking a generously sized pot and filling it with water. Heat the pot until the water reaches a rolling boil. As the water heats up, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.

Step 2: Mastering Al Dente Spaghetti

Once the water is boiling vigorously, gently add the spaghetti to the pot. Refer to the package instructions for precise cooking times, but a general guideline is to cook the spaghetti for approximately 8-10 minutes. You’ll want to aim for that perfect “al dente” texture, where the pasta is tender yet slightly firm to the bite.

Creating the Prego Sauce Magic

In a separate saucepan, heat the Prego sauce over low heat.

Combining It All Together

Step 1: Mix the Meatballs and Sauce

Gently place the cooked meatballs into the heated Prego sauce. Allow them to simmer together for about 10 minutes, ensuring the meatballs absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Step 2: Serve

Place a portion of cooked spaghetti on each plate, top it with the meatballs and Prego sauce, and sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese if desired.

FAQs – Your Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use different meat for the meatballs?

A1: Absolutely! You can experiment with ground chicken, turkey, or even a meat substitute for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Q2: What if I’m vegetarian?

A2: No problem! You can make delicious vegetarian meatballs using ingredients like mushrooms, beans, or tofu, and pair them with Prego’s vegetarian sauce options.

Q3: How can I make this dish healthier?

A3: To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat spaghetti and leaner meats like turkey or chicken. Also, increase the vegetable content in the sauce for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Making spaghetti and meatballs with Prego sauce is a delightful culinary adventure that anyone can embark on. With this step-by-step guide, you’re well-equipped to create a scrumptious Italian-American feast right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and savor the flavors of Italy.