Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Erin: You know how long I have searched for the perfect spaghetti and meatball recipe. I think I've tried about 100 different recipes. But alas! Sam bought me a new cookbook, "100 Recipes Every Woman Should Know" and there was a spaghetti recipe that I knew I had to try. It was simple and delicious.

Ingredients;
Meatballs:
1/2 lb ground beef
1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg, slightly beaten
5 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
Mariana Sauce:
3 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 28oz can whole tomatoes, chopped
salt and pepper
1 tablespoon butter
5 basil leaves, torn into pieces

1 8oz package spaghetti 

Make the meatballs:
1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except the olive oil, mixing gently with your hands
2. Rinse your hands with cold water then lightly shape the meatball mixture into balls the size of grapes
3. In a large, heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over moderately high heat
4. Working in batches, arrange the meatballs in the skillet in single layer and cook, turning a few times until brown on all sides, about 8 minutes total. Transfer to a place and set aside
Make the Marinana Sauce:
1. In a large saucepan, saute the garlic in the olive oil over medium heat until golden
2. Turn the heat to high; add tomatoes and a large pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, then turn heat down to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick (about 15-20 minutes)
3.Add butter and basil to the saucepan, stirring to melt the butter. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add meatballs to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain. Add spaghetti to the saucepan with marinara and meatballs and toss to coat.