Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ingredients

• 1 lb. 

  spaghetti

• 1 lb. 

  ground beef

• 1/3 c. 

  bread crumbs

• 1/4 c. 

  finely chopped parsley

• 1/4 c. 

  freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving

• 1 

  large egg

• 2 

  garlic cloves, minced

• Kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp. 

  red pepper flakes

• 2 tbsp. 

  extra-virgin olive oil

• 1/2 c. 

  onion, finely chopped

• 1 

  (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 

  bay leaf

• Freshly ground black pepper

Description

1. Step 1In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. Step 2In a large bowl, combine beef with bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan, egg, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined then form into 16 balls.
3. Step 3In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Transfer meatballs to a plate.
4. Step 4Add onion to pot and cook until soft, 5 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Return meatballs to pot and cover. Simmer until sauce has thickened, 8 to 10 minutes.
5. Step 5Serve pasta with a healthy scoop of meatballs and sauce. Top with Parmesan before serving.