How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs on a Budget: A Delicious and Cost-Effective Guide

Are you craving a classic Italian dinner but worried about stretching your budget? Look no further! Spaghetti and Meatballs is not only a beloved dish but also an affordable option for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without overspending. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process on how to make Spaghetti and Meatballs on a budget, using simple and cost-effective ingredients. This recipe is perfect for feeding a family or for meal prepping for the week ahead. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious, budget-friendly meal!

Why Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Spaghetti and Meatballs is a timeless favorite for good reason. It’s easy to make, filling, and adaptable. What’s even better? You can prepare this dish on a budget without sacrificing flavor. By focusing on affordable ingredients and clever cooking techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy a tasty Italian feast without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Budget-Friendly Spaghetti and Meatballs

To keep things budget-friendly, we’ve chosen ingredients that are both economical and versatile. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Opt for the 80/20 blend for a mix of flavor and fat that’s not too greasy.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Regular or Italian breadcrumbs work well.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Freshly grated or pre-grated.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds essential garlic flavor without the cost of fresh garlic.
• Dried Italian Herbs (1 tsp): A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme for an authentic Italian taste.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For frying the meatballs.

For the Spaghetti:

• Spaghetti (12 oz): Regular or whole wheat, depending on your preference.
• Salt (for boiling): Enhances the flavor of the pasta.

For the Marinara Sauce:

• Canned Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz): A cost-effective base for your sauce.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds texture and flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is affordable and adds great flavor.
• Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Dried Italian Herbs (1 tsp): For that classic Italian flavor.
• Sugar (1 tsp): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Budget-Friendly Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
2. Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 12-15 in total, depending on your preferred size.
3. Cook Meatballs: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Transfer cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 2: Make the Marinara Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté 1 finely chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Prepare Sauce: Add 1 can of tomato sauce and 1 can of diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in 1 tsp of dried Italian herbs and 1 tsp of sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.
2. Cook Pasta: Add 12 oz of spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain Pasta: Drain the spaghetti in a colander. If desired, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Place the cooked meatballs into the marinara sauce and let them simmer together for a few minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the sauce’s flavors.
2. Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your budget-friendly feast!

Tips for Making Spaghetti and Meatballs on a Budget

1. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and pasta in bulk can save you money over time. Store any extras in your pantry or freezer for future meals.

2. Use Leftovers Wisely

This meal is perfect for leftovers! Store any remaining meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat and serve for a quick, easy meal.

3. Homemade Breadcrumbs

If you have stale bread, make your own breadcrumbs by toasting and crushing it. This is a great way to use up old bread and save a few dollars.

4. Add Veggies

Boost the nutritional value of your sauce by adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. They blend well with the tomato sauce and enhance the dish without significantly increasing the cost.

5. Seasoning Substitutes

If you don’t have dried Italian herbs, you can use other herbs like thyme or basil. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste and what you have on hand.

Conclusion

Making Spaghetti and Meatballs on a budget is entirely possible with a little planning and the right ingredients. This classic dish combines affordability with fantastic flavor, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a meal that’s not only kind to your wallet but also loved by everyone at your table.

So next time you’re in the mood for a hearty Italian dinner, remember this budget-friendly recipe for Spaghetti and Meatballs. It’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire, providing both great taste and savings. Happy cooking!