Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Red Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 tsp dried basil (or fresh if available)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 400g spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• Salt for pasta water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

* In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). * Mix until everything is well incorporated. * Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). * Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. (They don't need to be fully cooked yet; they’ll finish in the sauce). * Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

* In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. * Add chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 4-5 minutes. * Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. * Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. * Let the sauce simmer on low for 15-20 minutes to develop flavor. Stir occasionally. * If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender.

3. Cream the Add the Meatballs:

* Add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. * Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C).

4. Cook the Pasta:

While the meatballs are simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain when al dente.

5. Serve:

* Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked pasta. * Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Red Bliss Pasta with Meatballs!