SilkpieRecipe
Spaghetti and Meatball Nests with Basil and Parmesan
Texture
Garnish
On the plate

Pasta & Noodles · Italian-American

Spaghetti and Meatball Nests with Basil and Parmesan

4.8 (684 cooks rated this)

Tender pork and beef meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce, then crown a tightly twirled nest of spaghetti. Fine ribbons of basil and a generous snowfall of parmesan make this family favorite look restaurant-ready.

25 min Prep
40 min Cook
1 hr 5 min Total
4 Servings
Medium Difficulty
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Test kitchen note: Twirl each portion with a carving fork inside a ladle, then slide it out onto the plate; the nest keeps its shape perfectly.

Method 6 steps

  1. Mix beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup parmesan, half the garlic, 1 teaspoon salt and pepper with your hands until just combined. Roll into 16 small meatballs.

  2. Brown the meatballs in olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high, about 6 minutes, turning often. Transfer to a plate.

  3. Add the remaining garlic to the pan for 30 seconds, then pour in the tomatoes, season and bring to a simmer.

  4. Return the meatballs, cover partially and simmer 20 minutes until cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

  5. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, drain and toss with a few ladles of sauce.

  6. Twirl each portion into a tight nest on a plate, top with meatballs and extra sauce, then finish with basil ribbons and the remaining parmesan.

That is the whole pie. Enjoy every slice.

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