Chicken Meatballs and Spaghetti: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower: Prepare to be amazed! Forget everything you thought you knew about cauliflower because this recipe is about to redefine your perception of this humble vegetable. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked cauliflower florets enveloped in a crispy, golden-brown Parmesan crust. Sounds delicious, right? This isn’t your grandma’s boiled cauliflower; it’s a flavor explosion that will have even the most ardent cauliflower skeptics begging for more.

While cauliflower itself doesn’t boast a particularly rich history steeped in cultural significance like some other vegetables, the concept of coating and baking vegetables has been around for centuries. Think of Italian eggplant Parmesan, a dish that shares a similar spirit of transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. This Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower recipe takes that same principle and applies it to a vegetable often overlooked, elevating it to star status.

So, why do people love this dish? It’s simple: the combination of textures and flavors is irresistible. The tender-crisp cauliflower provides a satisfying bite, while the salty, nutty Parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch and savory depth. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a vegetarian main course, or just a way to sneak more vegetables into your diet, this Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower is a guaranteed winner. Get ready to experience cauliflower like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Meatballs:
• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for a lighter texture)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
• For the Spaghetti Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
• For the Spaghetti:
• 1 lb spaghetti
• Salt (for pasta water)

Preparing the Chicken Meatballs:

Okay, let’s get started with the meatballs! This is where the magic happens, and trust me, homemade meatballs are SO much better than store-bought. We’re going for tender, juicy, and flavorful here.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk (or chicken broth), oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix! Overmixing will result in tough meatballs. Use your hands to gently bring everything together until just combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Now, using your hands (or a small cookie scoop for uniform size), form the mixture into meatballs. I usually aim for about 1-inch meatballs, but you can make them smaller or larger depending on your preference. Just remember that larger meatballs will take longer to cook. Place the formed meatballs on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking.
3. Chill (Optional but Recommended): Cover the meatballs with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and allows the flavors to meld together. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it if you can spare the time.

Browning the Meatballs:

Browning the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor. It’s a crucial step, so don’t skip it!

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sear the meatballs quickly.
2. Brown the Meatballs: Working in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!), carefully place the meatballs in the hot oil. Brown them on all sides until they are nicely browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per batch. The meatballs don’t need to be cooked through at this point, just browned on the outside.
3. Remove and Set Aside: As the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Spaghetti Sauce:

While the meatballs are resting (or after you’ve browned them), let’s get started on the sauce. A good homemade sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet or Dutch oven you used to brown the meatballs (don’t wipe it out – all those browned bits add flavor!), add the remaining olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in the oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Meatballs in the Sauce:

Now for the best part – letting the meatballs simmer in that delicious sauce!

1. Add the Meatballs to the Sauce: Gently add the browned meatballs to the simmering sauce. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce.
2. Simmer Together: Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and continue to simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This allows the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Spaghetti:

While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, let’s cook the spaghetti. This is pretty straightforward, but there are a few key things to keep in mind.

1. Bring Water to a Boil: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Salt the Water: Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. This seasons the pasta from the inside out. I usually add about 1-2 tablespoons of salt.
3. Cook the Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
4. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the spaghetti, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to thin the sauce if needed and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
5. Drain the Spaghetti: Drain the spaghetti in a colander.

Assembling and Serving:

Almost there! Now it’s time to put everything together and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

1. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet or Dutch oven with the meatballs and sauce. Toss to coat the spaghetti evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Serve: Serve the spaghetti and meatballs immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Enjoy! That’s it! You’ve made delicious homemade chicken meatballs and spaghetti. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that your family will be begging for again and again. These Chicken Meatballs and Spaghetti are a must-try because they offer a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. The tender, juicy meatballs, simmered in that rich, homemade tomato sauce, clinging perfectly to the spaghetti… honestly, what’s not to love? It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the meatballs. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, or a sprinkle of dried oregano can enhance the classic Italian flavor. For a richer, more decadent sauce, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the very end.

Looking for serving suggestions? A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this hearty meal. Or, for a more substantial side, try some garlic bread or roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even use the chicken meatballs in a meatball sub or as a topping for pizza! The possibilities are truly endless.

And speaking of variations, if you’re trying to cut down on carbs, you can easily swap the spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. The chicken meatballs and sauce will taste just as amazing, and you’ll have a lighter, healthier meal. You could also use different types of pasta, like penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Each pasta shape will hold the sauce in a slightly different way, creating a unique and enjoyable eating experience.

I truly believe that this Chicken Meatballs and Spaghetti recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to your own tastes and preferences. It’s also a fantastic way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. Let them help you roll the meatballs or stir the sauce – it’s a fun and educational activity that they’ll enjoy.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking! Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps other home cooks discover this delicious and easy meal. Let’s spread the love for these amazing chicken meatballs!