Elk Meatballs & Spaghetti

Elk Meatball Spaghetti Recipe

Elk Ridge Farm, the largest elk farm in Ontario, is dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainable, and ethically sourced elk meat straight from their farm to your table. Their premium elk meat is lean, rich in flavor, and packed with nutrients, making it a versatile and healthy choice for any dish. This recipe for elk meatball spaghetti showcases the deliciously tender and slightly gamey taste of elk, paired with a savory tomato sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground elk meat
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)

For the Spaghetti:

  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:

    • In a large bowl, combine ground elk, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Mix until well incorporated.
    • Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.

  2. Cook the Meatballs:

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
    • Place the meatballs in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
    • Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
    • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
    • Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them cook in the sauce for 15 minutes on low heat.

  4. Cook the Spaghetti:

    • While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  5. Assemble and Serve:

    • Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce and meatballs over the spaghetti.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.