Meat Balls with Spaghetti

Recipe Ingredients: 

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/3 c. breadcrumbs
• 1/4 c. finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp. olive oil, divided
• 1/2 c. Onion, finely chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 35-oz. can crushed tomatoes in puree
• kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lb. spaghetti, prepared according to package instructions

Recipe Method: 

1. In a large bowl, combine beef with breadcrumbs, parsley, parmesan, egg, garlic, salt and pepper flakes. Mix until just combined and form into 16 balls.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add1 tbsp oil. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove meatballs and reserve on plate.
4. Add the remaining olive oil and onion and saute until onion is translucent. Add bay leaf and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Add the meatballs back into the pot, cover and simmer until the sauce has thickened, 8-10 minutes.
5. Serve pasta with a healthy scoop of meatballs and sauce. Top with parmesan and serve.