Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. It’s a dish that evokes warm memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and cozy nights in. This classic Italian-American recipe combines tender meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a hearty meal, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of making this beloved dish from scratch!
Why It Deserves a Spot
This spaghetti and meatballs recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying, combining a variety of textures and flavors in every bite. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, while the sauce is rich and aromatic. Second, it’s a versatile dish; you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Lastly, it’s a timeless classic that brings people together, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
What You’ll Gather
- 1.25 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 whole egg
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked to al dente
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Before You Start: Equipment
- Large mixing bowl: For combining meatball ingredients.
- Skillet or frying pan: For browning meatballs and sautéing onions.
- Large pot: To cook spaghetti and simmer the sauce.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing.
- Cooking thermometer (optional): To ensure meatballs are cooked through.
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, seasoned bread crumbs, whole egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go. This recipe should yield around 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown all sides of the meatballs, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on a plate, top it with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with fresh chopped basil. You can also add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like.
No-Store Runs Needed
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Instead of seasoned bread crumbs, you can make your own by toasting and crushing bread with herbs.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped for dried if you’re in a pinch.
- If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth works well in a pinch.
Learn from These Mistakes
- Overmixing the meatball ingredients can lead to dense meatballs—mix just until combined.
- Skipping the browning step can result in meatballs that lack flavor. Browning adds depth!
- Not simmering the meatballs in the sauce long enough can leave them undercooked.
- Using water instead of broth can result in a bland sauce—always opt for broth for richness.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, store the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen as they sit! You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. For meal prep, consider making a double batch of meatballs and sauce. They freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy a homemade meal any night of the week. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
Ask the Chef
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember to cook them in the sauce before serving.
What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes that complement the meal beautifully.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut one open to ensure it’s no longer pink in the center.
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?
Yes! Whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti can be substituted without any issues, allowing you to enjoy a healthier or dietary-friendly version of this dish.
Final Thoughts
This spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a delightful mix of comfort and flavor, perfect for any occasion. From the juicy meatballs simmered in a rich sauce to the al dente spaghetti, every bite is a reminder of why this dish is a beloved classic. Take your time with each step, and don’t hesitate to make adjustments based on your preferences. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Dive into the world of homemade spaghetti and meatballs, and enjoy the process as much as the delicious results!
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, seasoned bread crumbs, whole egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go. This recipe should yield around 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown all sides of the meatballs, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
- While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on a plate, top it with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with fresh chopped basil. You can also add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like.
Notes
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Instead of seasoned bread crumbs, you can make your own by toasting and crushing bread with herbs.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped for dried if you’re in a pinch.
