When it comes to culinary delights, Ina Garten's recipes have always held a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Her Spaghetti and Meatball recipe, in particular, has garnered a cult - like following, with even celebrities like Taylor Swift singing its praises. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into how to make Ina Garten's “Real Meatballs and Spaghetti”, explore the homemade marinara sauce recipe, and discuss other creative ways to use these delicious components.

Let's start with the meatballs. To make Ina Garten's meatballs, you'll need a blend of high - quality ingredients. Begin by gathering 1 pound each of ground beef and ground veal. The combination of these two meats gives the meatballs a rich and complex flavor. You'll also need 1/2 pound of ground pork for added juiciness. In a large bowl, add the meats and then incorporate 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan not only adds a salty, umami flavor but also helps bind the meatballs together.

Next, add 1/2 cup of milk. The milk might seem like an unusual addition, but it keeps the meatballs moist during the cooking process. Also, add 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley, which imparts a bright, fresh flavor. Two large eggs are crucial as they act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together. Season the mixture generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt enhances the flavors, while the pepper adds a bit of heat.

Now, it's time to form the meatballs. Take about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Drizzle some olive oil over the meatballs and bake them for about 25 - 30 minutes until they are cooked through and have a nice golden - brown exterior. The baking process ensures that the meatballs are cooked evenly from the inside out.

While the meatballs are in the oven, it's time to make the homemade marinara sauce. Ina Garten's marinara sauce is a masterpiece in itself. Start by heating 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 large onions, chopped, and cook them until they are softened and translucent. This usually takes about 8 - 10 minutes. Then, add 4 cloves of garlic, minced. The garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce. Cook the garlic for about 1 - 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.

Next, add 2 cans of crushed tomatoes. The crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce. Stir in 1/4 cup of dry red wine. The red wine adds a depth of flavor and a slight acidity to the sauce. Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh oregano. These herbs give the sauce a fresh, Italian - inspired flavor. Season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Once the meatballs are cooked and the sauce is ready, it's time to assemble the spaghetti and meatballs. Cook 1 pound of spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the pot with the marinara sauce. Gently stir the spaghetti in the sauce to coat it evenly. Then, add the cooked meatballs to the pot and let them simmer in the sauce for a few more minutes to absorb the flavors.

Now, let's talk about other ways to use the red sauce and meatballs. You can use the marinara sauce as a pizza sauce. Simply spread a thin layer of the sauce on a pre - made pizza crust, add your favorite toppings like mozzarella cheese, sliced bell peppers, and mushrooms, and bake it in the oven for a delicious homemade pizza. The meatballs can be used in a sub sandwich. Slice a hoagie roll in half, spread some of the marinara sauce on the inside, add a few meatballs, and top it with melted provolone cheese for a mouth - watering meatball sub.

Another great idea is to make meatball sliders. Cut small slider buns in half, place a mini - meatball on each bun, top it with a spoonful of the marinara sauce, and a slice of fresh mozzarella. Broil the sliders in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These sliders are perfect for parties or as a quick snack.

In conclusion, Ina Garten's Spaghetti and Meatball recipe is not only a classic but also a versatile one. By mastering the art of making the meatballs and the marinara sauce, you open up a world of culinary possibilities. So, roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and start creating these delicious dishes that are sure to impress your family and friends.