Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (plain, unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound (450g) cooked spaghetti (slightly undercooked is better)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gently mix until just combined. Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
  3. Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the simmering marinara sauce and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and olive oil. Mix well to coat the spaghetti evenly.
  5. Press the spaghetti mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, creating a crust. Pack it firmly and evenly.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown and set.
  7. Remove the crust from the oven. Spread the marinara sauce with meatballs evenly over the spaghetti crust. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before removing the springform pan. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if desired) and serve immediately.