Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a small bowl, combine matzo meal with water and beaten eggs. Let sit for 5 minutes until the matzo meal absorbs the liquid.
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, the matzo meal mixture, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix just until combined - don't overwork the meat.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 20-24 meatballs, each about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place on a plate as you work.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning carefully to brown all sides, about 8-10 minutes total. They don't need to be cooked through at this point. Transfer to a plate.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet (don't clean it - those browned bits add flavor), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- If using wine, add it now and let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Bring sauce to a simmer, then carefully nestle the browned meatballs back into the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The meatballs should be cooked through and the sauce should be rich and thick.
Cook the Pasta and Serve
- About 15 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Taste sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar if needed.
- Serve spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
Notes
The meatballs can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated in the sauce - they actually taste better after sitting overnight. This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. For extra flavor, try adding a bay leaf to the sauce while it simmers (remove before serving).
