Spaghetti & Meatballs

Spaghetti & Meatballs is a timeless, comforting dish that features tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a beloved classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to every meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect blend of textures and flavors—juicy meatballs, hearty tomato sauce, and al dente spaghetti. It’s a complete meal that’s easy to make, family-friendly, and ideal for leftovers. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, it never fails to please.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

• Ground beef or a beef-pork blend
• Bread crumbs
• Milk
• Egg
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (grated or finely chopped)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil (for frying or baking)

For the sauce:

• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Salt and pepper
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Dried oregano and basil
• Fresh basil (optional)

For the pasta:

• Spaghetti
• Salt (for boiling water)
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk. Add meat, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form into small balls. Fry in olive oil or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until browned. Set aside.
3. Make the sauce: Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for another 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
5. Cook the spaghetti: Boil in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil or sauce.
6. Serve the spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for depth.
• Include chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap spaghetti for other pasta types like linguine or rigatoni.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs. For cooked, reheat in sauce directly from frozen.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, for convenience, but homemade marinara offers better flavor and customization.

How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

Use enough binder (egg and breadcrumbs) and avoid overmixing the meat mixture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.

Is it better to bake or fry the meatballs?

Both work well. Baking is easier and less messy; frying gives a crispier texture.

What’s the best meat for meatballs?

A blend of beef and pork offers juiciness and flavor, but beef alone works too.

Can I cook the pasta in the sauce?

It’s best to cook pasta separately for texture control, but you can finish it in the sauce.

What cheese goes best with this?

Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty, nutty finish.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—this dish scales easily and is great for meal prep or guests.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added to the sauce or meatballs.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Meatballs is a universally loved dish that brings together simple ingredients for big flavor. With tender, savory meatballs and a hearty tomato sauce over classic spaghetti, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food—and one you’ll turn to again and again.

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