Friday, October 26, 2007

Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs

I think this is one of the best spaghetti and meatballs recipe I have ever had. Every time I make it, people ask for the recipe.

4 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
5 cups canned crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
1 large egg
1/3 cup milk
1 white onion, finely chopped
2/3 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/2 cup freshly grated Asiago or Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound spaghetti
Directions
Make the Sauce: In a large nonstick skillet, heat 3 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, and cook, about 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and cook, covered, for 20 to 25 minutes.
Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, whisk together egg, milk, 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper with a fork. Stir in onion, breadcrumbs, cheese, and parsley. Add turkey, mixing until combined. Form into 1 1/2-inch balls.
Add meatballs to skillet, spooning sauce over to coat. Cover, and cook over medium heat until meatballs are just cooked through, about 8 minutes.
While meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, and cook until al dente, following package instructions, about 12 minutes. Drain pasta, and toss with remaining tablespoon oil.
Add spaghetti to skillet, and toss to coat evenly. Serve with additional cheese, if desired.
Generously Serves 4

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