Spaghetti and Meatballs: Budget-Friendly Recipe Under $2

Key Takeaway:

Learn how to make delicious spaghetti and meatballs at home for a fraction of the cost of dining out—perfectly seasoned meatballs, flavorful tomato sauce, and tender pasta.

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Remember the classic spaghetti and meatballs from childhood dinners out? You can recreate that nostalgic dish at home for much less than restaurant prices. Let’s break down how to make this beloved meal affordably and deliciously.

Ingredients Cost Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the cost for making spaghetti and meatballs at home:

Ingredient	Cost
Ground Beef (1 lb)	$2.50
Eggs (1)	$0.15
Garlic (6 cloves)	$0.20
Panko Bread Crumbs	$0.10
Crushed Tomatoes (12 oz)	$0.99
Spaghetti (1 lb)	$1.00
Parmesan Cheese (optional)	$0.50
Total per serving	$2.45

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Pasta

Making your own pasta dough is cost-effective if you have the tools:

• Homemade Pasta Dough:
• Requires flour, eggs, and a pasta roller.
• Costs slightly more upfront but adds freshness.
• Cost: Around $0.50 per serving.
• Store-Bought Pasta:
• Convenient and cheaper initially.
• Costs around $1.00 for a pound of dry spaghetti.
• Cost: Approximately $0.25 per serving.

Flavorful Meatballs: Simple and Tasty

Making meatballs from scratch ensures flavor and quality:

• Mix ground beef with chopped garlic, finely ground fennel seed, salt, pepper, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
• Form into balls and sear until browned.
• Cost: Approximately $1.95 for 20 meatballs.

Savory Tomato Sauce

Create a quick and delicious tomato sauce for your meatballs:

• Saute garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil.
• Add crushed tomatoes, simmer, and season with salt and a pinch of sugar.
• Cost: Approximately $0.99 per batch.

Cooking and Assembly

1. Cooking Meatballs:

• Sear meatballs until browned, then simmer in tomato sauce until cooked through.
• Time: 10-15 minutes.

1. Cooking Pasta:

• Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente.
• Time: 8-10 minutes.

1. Combining Everything:

• Toss cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce and meatballs.
• Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
• Time: 2-3 minutes.

Serving and Enjoying

• Plate generous portions of spaghetti and top with meatballs and extra sauce.
• Serve with crusty bread and a simple green salad.
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Homemade spaghetti and meatballs is a comforting, budget-friendly meal that anyone can master. By making it yourself, you control the ingredients and flavors while saving money compared to eating out. Enjoy this classic dish with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

For more affordable and delicious recipes, stay tuned for our next culinary adventure. Happy cooking!